The idea of designing interiors along the principles of Feng Shui is a modern approach in the west, adopting a philosophical idea that has ancient roots in Taoist beliefs originating in China. The notion is based on the concept of enabling positive energy to flow and creating an environment in which humans can connect with it.

If you want to apply this to your establishment, it will not just involve how you create space and where various furnishings are located; lighting also plays a part. 

Feng Shui sees light in its various forms as representing fire and its presence is seen as a bringer of positive energy. As such, low voltage lighting can be helpful in meeting Feng Shui principles. Fluorescent light is seen negatively.

An article in House Digest related how bathroom lighting could affect Feng Shui. While it was related to the home, this could also apply to a bathroom in a hotel or a restaurant washroom.

It quoted an explanation given to the Greatist website by Feng Shui expert Julie Schuster, noting: ”From a traditional feng shui perspective, bathrooms have a bad reputation as they are thought to drain and flush away positive energy.” This is because water is seen as a source of positive energy.

However, because light is seen as having a positive effect, this can bring back some positive balance. However, you should avoid any hanging fittings, which are considered unlucky. Of course, you won’t see chandeliers in many bathrooms or washrooms, but this applies to your whole premises, so bars, dining areas, hallways and any other room should be free of any hanging lights.

Floor lamps are another element of lighting that is said to create positive energy, so you should consider your floor lighting in this as well.

Some people take Feng Shui more seriously than others. But if you want to fall fully in line with the philosophy, it is important to configure your lighting in just the right way.