Cecil Lee

In my opinion, personally, if I am in your shoes; and given the limited space within the duplex home; I would (weigh the risks - if any) and also do the same as what you have done in the photo. The only extra thing I would do is to mount a (reasonable quality smoke detector). Some of the better quality ones come in a 12V battery. And to tell one that it is working fine, every few seconds, it wouldblink a red led light.As an added precaution. For problems at work; and if you are trying to apply Feng Shui, then other than the above considerations: 1. Compass School Feng Shui (Comprises both Para 1.1. and 1.2) 1.1. Eight House or 4 Good/Bad 1.1.1 You have to find out the person's best facing direction(s). 1.1.2 It is considered NICE-to sit facing one's favourable direction(s) and equally nice sitting in a GOOD SECTOR. 1.1.3 It is considered BOTH NICE-to sit facing one's good direction as well as NICE-to sit in a good sector. Of course if one has the luxury of choosing such a location. 1.1.4 Some work from an office; some work from home. Some work in-between home and office. But, if one does work in a office; often it is at least 8 hours a day; then the Feng Shui of that home has to be considered. 1.1.5 Given that it is impractical to change homes; things like "how suitable this home is to us" or if the home is too compact, may not be possible to re-arrange e.g. the bed-head position etc.... This area is likely "closed" and unable to do anything about it. 1.2. Flying Star Feng Shui 1.2.1. If you are trying to apply Feng Shui, then this is one of the concepts that one need to use in order to find out problems etc.... 2. There is another area e.g. Ba Zi Feng Shui: which in simple layman terms: one of the idea is to harmonize the personal colours found from this analysis.

1. In fact, if one tries to think further, there are even more compelling reasons under common sense. 2. However, do take note that like insurance companies; they would weigh the risks (if any) before either accepting a client and/or ascertaining the costs for the insurance. 3. For example; TOUCH WOOD; this often does not occur frequently, but sadly, it is still a possibility:- 3.1 Based on common sense, the staircase firstly is a means to get from upper to lower floor and vice versa. 3.2 In the highly remote possibility of a fire breaking out e.g. short-circuit of any of the equipment (PC and it's ancillary equipments) that are just below the stairs or their transformer or power supply; this "escape" route is no longer available. 3.3 In many studies, for example; again; in an air-plane accident; many die more from toxic smoke inhalation than from the fire itself. Thus an open stairs... and one can figure it out. 4. Thus, it is why most of the time, many prefer leaving the area below the staircase e.g. a cool or even dark area especially if it is a store room to store "simple" things. And not e.g. keep petrol or a bit far fetch ... having a stove or other appliances below the staircase. 5. Again, I like to emphasise that "you stay there, we don't". Thus, it is up to the individuals to weigh their own risks (IF ANY). To take whatever precautions; based on common sense to make it as safe as possible. 5.1. For example, a workstation that is e.g. boxed up where even if any water or liquid may spill from the stairs, the pc equipment has e.g. a roofing. 5.2. To make sure that the workstation area is not cluttered with too much paper. And do not over load the power plug at this location and even others with too many appliances. 5.3. If possible, don't charge the phone conveniently at that workstation. As there are known cases of defective batteries.. and even some iphones had ever got their batteries running too hot... and even in recent years; several Japanese PC companies like Sony, Toshiba and Panasonic had used e.g. defective batteries from sources like Sanyo. Where the batteries because of some impurities had been known to get extremely hot and cause fire. 6. Again, apologies, I am not, here to frighten you or anyone else. Touch Wood!

From now on, I hope that most of us, could, put on our thinking caps and pause for a moment....... http://forum.geomancy.net/phpforum/article.php?bid=2&fid=6&mid=32277&new=?pagewanted=all Is the issue (If any) originated from common sense? You will be surprised! How common it is ... based on pure common sense and not something mysterious in the name of Feng Shui...

These are some considerations: 1. What you mentioned belonged to a category known as: Common sense. 2. Many so called Feng Shui concepts has it's roots under common sense. 3. If one has read many of the past postings in this forum or use the SEARCH feature in this forum and type: Common sense; one can read about them. 4. Why Common sense? 4.1. Pure and simple. 4.1.1. Especially in your photo; the staircase is an open one. 4.1.2. And just take 1 situation: If you need to clean or even "wet" the staircase, but forgot to cover or temporarily remove the items (below it) e.g. water may damage the stairs AND/OR 4.1.3. Some people of all races, may not be in favour of someone walking up or down the stairs. To us most Chinese (I believe other races, also do...feel the same), we don't like someone walking so openly above us. It is akin somewhat to e.g. a humiliated person who has to crawl between the legs of a women : which is considered extremelybad luck... (Especially if the woman is having her period) AND/OR 4.1.4. In an open staircase, if a lady was wearing a skirt; from the position where the computer seat is could or might look at the colour of the undies... 5. It is because of such things, that EVEN in the context of or in the name of Feng Shui; it is considered inauspicious. 6. In past forum messages, I have also mentioned that before one place the "blame upon Feng Shui"; give a thought to see IF, by any chance, it has more to do with COMMON SENSE. 7. Given that one may better understand the situation: since it is based on PURE COMMON SENSE, tell me, what CURE is there for it? 7.1. A cure? then, do remember not to do all the things mentioned under 4.1.2 and 4.1.3 (if any). 7.1. It is just that perhaps the author of THAT book mimic others and /or did not look at it from a pure common sense perspective. 8. Thus, if one purely try to pin this blame to Feng Shui; then at least it should come under the category: " Shapes and Forms Feng Shui ". 8.1. In a common sense situation: Either you sit there or you don't. That's about it. "Still not happy? then move. That's all. Plain and simple. Again, "what cure can there be to applease one's common sense" 8.2. In another Feng Shui concept, let's hope that your current sitting position is NICE-TO face a good direction.

It is a widespread practice in numerous Chinese households to display a Hokkien "ang chai" or "Hong Cai" above the primary entrance. The Hong Cai represents joy and good fortune, particularly for the Hokkien community. This tradition is commonly observed when moving into a new residence, during the Chinese New Year, or at the start of each new year. Additionally, it is customary to hang the Hong Cai for weddings, newlyweds, and birthdays.

An eco friendly and functional home that directly faces the afternoon sun. Location: Dunbar Walk / Coldstream avenue

A home with high quality external wall finishing...

Although this home has "less privacy" because of the way the ventilation areas were designed into the high wall bordering the house. But because of this type of design; as a result; this home should be more airy and well ventilated. Nowadays, we seldom see such a "see thru" design. However, there are variants of such a design where "half-walls" are/were constructed instead of a full inverse triangular "openings". Who cares if occasionally others can see into the home. So long as it is both functional and practical for the household! Of course, this is Singapore and not the US. Where most homes don't even have a "keep-out" fencing.

Based on a decision tree: Please refer to attachment. Either follow the route under Light BLUE or if one applies Feng Shui; then the most common concepts applicable to this thread are highlighted in YELLOW.

Frankly, you are akin to standing on a road that has two forks: you could either "turn" left or turn "right" to venture on another road. Here, the first turn is often based on your personal feel. The other turn, which frankly, there is no way to figure outi.e. really no short cut. Here, a flying star chart is plotted to see if that sector could accept a water feature. Of course, if that sector has good stars like double #8's and/or a Water Star e.g. #8 or #1 that supports a water feature; then this is excellent. But if that sector, however turned out to have a Mountain star #8 then this may not be good to have the water feature. One plus point is that you mentioned something like the proposed water feature location is at North? If so; it is not as bad as a water feature in the shape of a circular pool at the West (tiger's mouth). Based on the green dragon and white tiger concept. However, given that this is the "backyard" of your home and without much further consideration, can understand being more cautious than say if the water feature is at the "frontage" of the home. As often, majority of the time, if the water position is so called at the "frontage" of a home; half the battle is already won. As often, 80 percent of the time; in general, one would get a pass. As the water feature creates some clear space at the frontage= "bright hall" effect. As mentioned, really, there is no short-cut if one applies the "scientific" approach using Flying Star Feng Shui. Here, someone or you may have to DIY to: plot out the flying star numbers from now to 2023 and subsequently if you intend to stay >2023 etc... and analyse the stars within the sectors. There is no short-cut, here. As the results does not magically appear in front of the person. Otherwise, frankly, you have to go with the first "turning" i.e. go with your personal feelings.

In my opinion, there are different opinions with regards to this. Frankly, some geomancers don't even associate the two i.e. a chiming clock and NE or SW sector. Thus, if they are truly not either aware or too concern about it; then this is one consideration. Often, if one practises Flying Star Feng Shui; and applies Flying Star Feng Shui; As a simple e.g. sectors that have CONCENTRATION of YIN stars e.g. 2, 4, 6, 8 plus if these locations are especially the storeroom or a basement area; then even if these sectors are not NE or SW, can harbour COLD spots. If you have put two and two together and find yourself in doubt; then; you MAY if you wish; if feel not so comfortable with it; then, don't place a chiming clock at that sector. Within this area, one is often relying on personal feel or "art" than "science" of Feng Shui, for that matter.

In the hey days and especially up to 1980's; one can reminiscent Singapore HAD 4 Official Languages. Today, such signs with 4 official languages are rare......

Without fail, many Indians (Hindus) often place water melons; and in this case : hang a large water melon beside the main door. Water melons has been around for centuries. In fact, Egypt and India has been in-love with this one of the largest fruits since 3,000 years ago. In India, water melons are commonly found in the summer. And what better significance is to have a water melon placed on the ground or hung during summer-time.... Location: Recently TOP block of flats at Fernvale (directly opposite the Jalan Kayu Esso station (Exxon-mobil) station)

Perhaps, this water feature tries to identify it's smooth fluid lines with water. But from the photo; it does not seem that nice looking. What some geomancers are concerned is the way it looks or rather portrays. If it seems to portray some unknown "spirits" or ghostly forms etc... then one should be safe and avoid such a water feature totally. Note: for this type of water feature... do watch where the spout finally lands "to"

Perhaps, this type of water feature tries to looks like a cave (Mount or mountain) and a water feature in the middle of it. This variant has the rolling ball effect... It is easy to maintain. Again, it looks like a variant of that "Aliens cocoon" theme...

This is a typical "waterfall" type of water feature. When installing such a water feature... DO WATCH where to water flows TO. We don't want the water to "accidentally" flow into our neighbours or out of our home....

These are additional photos of other types of water feature designs. Which are commonly sold commercially, today... This water feature has a rectangular solid based. Rectangle represents earth. While the circle represents metal. Perhaps, the designer was eyeing the Chinese Luopan when he designed this one. As a Chinese Loupan usually has a "bright red" rectangular earth plate or base; and in the middle is where the circular (metal) plate sits on. The Chinese Luopan also signifies "Heaven" circle centrepiece and "Earth" rectangular plate. This water feature spouts 360 degrees and relatively easy to "maintain" : little or no maintenance required. If one is not sure, what to get, may consider this one. But be careful; if it is placed to close to an open balcony without grilles; a child may inadvertently climb on it and end up becoming a superman or super person and fall off from it.

Usually, the two main components are looked at 6MS vs 9WS. 6 being Strong Metal and 9 being Strong Fire. Under the Five elements concept: http://www.geomancy.net/talknotes/talknotes.htm Under the destructive element or rather in this case, it should be known as "wealth creation": Fire melts metal to create wealth. As one school of thought also says: 3BS represents = Strong Wood; Wood supports fire, which melts Metal. It is acceptable to have YELLOW so that the entire "equation becomes a flow" where: Wood supports Fire, Fire supports Earth; and Earth supports Metal Here, Wood = 3BS; Fire = 9WS; Earth = Yellow and finally Metal = 6MS. The best or optimum flow is to add "water" (blue, black or grey) to make it a full 5 elements "flow". Too much metal given the above "equation" is not advantages as the chiming clock being metal would actually weaken the 9WS. The above is one way of looking at it.

In my opinion, this water feature reminds me of the various cocoon eggs in the movie: The Aliens.... What do you think?

A dragon figurine seats on top of a home's boundary wall.. perhaps to guard it....

No offense intended. If so, might be the first in the name of Fung Sway to do so. No prizes, thou.

You wrote: I am new to fengshui but i like to seek some advice from you about new house. 1. Is it appropriate for a property to have a protruding wall directly outside the bedroom door? If not, what can be done? In my opinion, quite a lot of "issues" has it's origins in common sense then Feng Shui. And because it is common sense, some may not see the association and then proclaim it to be related to (or in the name) of Feng Shui. For example; why common sense? Here, one must use some imagination: How often we see someone running or dashing out of a door (be it a room or even a bedroom). And instead of running into an open h, the child could not stop in time or the floor can be slippery and simply "smash" into or hurt himself/herself against this protruding wall. Because of what I had mentioned, ideally, isn't it better to haveclear space directly after we walkout of a door. In some instances, a protruding wall(depending on how much protrusion may make it more difficult to negotiate bringingin and out furniture e.g. during a move or replacing e.g. a solid frame bed; or for some; may have difficulty in bringing one of those huge massage chair. In Feng Shui; if I don't explain with the above; simply it is considered inauspicious to have a protruding wall, facing a door. and You also wrote: 2. There is a steep sloping road far behind the house . Does it have any implications on the family members? Frankly, for such things, I always feel; only the writer of such short two sentences knows what he/she is talking about. The rest of us is like: ???????????

From a Feng Shui point of view; ideally, it is best to avoid certain colour(s). For example, avoid bright yellow coloured mat. Contrary to some beliefs; some might say to also avoid bright (chilli) red or maroon. But (we being) Chinese should consider this the exception rather than the rule. For a Chinese, it can still be OK to have a red mat.

Hey! I look so adorable!..

The attached window design feature: Casement windows encased by a distinct rectangular `protruding' enclosed brick shape sloping design was popular in the early 1970's. Many semi-detached and bungalow homes both in Singapore and Malaysia feature such an iconic design. Slowly as many owners redesign or do A&A works, such designs are disappearing gradually. As often, such homes are considered relatively "new" i.e. 30 to 40 years old and not worth conserving, yet. From a Feng Shui point of view, it is a stable design as rectangle represents the earth element. While circle designs during that era (1970's are rare and least desirable for large window openings). Often, the top ledge because it is broader, there; is a haven for birds / birds nest. Thus perhaps thanks to such a design, many birds happily started a family there - once upon a time...