Furniture arrangement is often treated as a stylistic choice, yet its impact on daily life can be profound. Architect Cliff Tan, known online as @dearmodern, argues that simply reorganizing a living space can change how you feel, provided you understand the underlying principles of energy flow. Tan, who moved from Singapore to London to study architecture, has built a seven-million-strong following by translating traditional spatial concepts into practical, often humorous, advice for modern homes.
He began sharing his expertise during the Covid lockdown when his architectural practice slowed. Quarantined in a Singapore hotel, he tried his hand at creating content for TikTok, a move that quickly went viral. He realized there was a gap in the market for Feng Shui advice that focused on architectural layout rather than superstitious numerology. This insight led to his first book, “Feng Shui Modern,” and subsequently, “Feng Shui Fix It! 100 Solutions for a Happier Home,” which explains how to correct common spatial mistakes.
He emphasizes that not every design error is catastrophic. In his new guide, Tan includes a rating system to help homeowners prioritize fixes, distinguishing between serious spatial issues like a door opening directly at your back and less critical matters. “Working with a door next to you is not as bad as working with a door behind you,” he notes, suggesting that practical comfort should take precedence over rigid rules.
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There is a specific energy associated with every room in a house. The bedroom is meant to be a calm, reflective space for rest, while the kitchen represents lively abundance. The living room balances relaxation with social energy, and the office should be motivating but not stressful. However, the entrance holds the most power. “The most important room in the house is the entrance,” Tan says. “Every time you come home, you need to feel happy and calm.”
Tan advises that when you enter a room, the first thing you see is the “money corner.” Making this area visually pleasing—perhaps with a plant or a bowl of fruit—can set a positive tone for the entire space. He also cautions against current interior design trends that might clash with these principles. For instance, while open shelving is popular, Tan considers it poor Feng Shui because it exposes clutter, which he likens to aggressive blades cutting through the room’s energy.
Practical Adjustments for Better Living
The most significant energy shift often happens in the workspace. Tan frequently sees people tuck their desks into dark corners to save space, a habit that can harm productivity. He suggests sitting with your back to a solid wall and facing the door, a position known as the “command position.” This allows you to see who enters the room while you work, which naturally reduces anxiety and improves focus.
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Even small details can be transformative. In his own London apartment, Tan placed his office in the brightest room and ensured his desk faced the door. In his Singapore studio, he removed a closet to create a workspace that looked out over the city. These adjustments are not about magic, but about aligning the physical environment with human psychology.
Tan points out that modern design often prioritizes aesthetics over function. A sofa pushed against a wall to look neat might block a view or create a reflection that disturbs a TV viewer. By prioritizing how a space actually feels to use—rather than just how it looks to visitors—homeowners can create an environment that supports their daily lives. “Feng Shui is a practice of making your home as good as possible,” he concludes, urging people to focus on their own comfort rather than fear of rules.
