Vastu and Decor Tips for Name Plates

Besides identifying a house, a name plate can also be used to enhance the decor of a house and create a good first impression. We look at the basic dos and don’ts for putting up a name plate on your house
A name plate or door plate, serves the functional purpose of identifying a house. However, a name plate can also serve as a decor element, which reflects the home owner’s style sensibilities. “Nowadays, nameplates come in various styles, such as modern, abstract, concept-based, as well as name plates inspired by one’s religion and can be custom made in any Indian language. They can be hung or affixed on the doors, or at the entrance of the house or society,”

Materials for making name plates

The most commonly used and budget-friendly name plates for apartments, are made of wood, acrylic or fibre. Simple signage for bigger and independent houses and buildings are generally made of granite, glass or Metal steel. Handmade signboards have a raw appeal, while designer name plates with creative use of fonts and a wooden finish, can lend a stellar appeal,  “Designer and multi-compound name plates are made from a combination of different materials like wood, glass, steel, terracotta, brass, or titanium. These name plates have a niche market. The trend, now, is to use a combination of various materials, to give a unique look,”

Seasoned wood, such as teakwood and railway sleepers, can also be used for making name plates. For budget-friendly options, commercial MDF (medium density fibre), plywood, veneer and pine wood, are ideal. Individual, preformed ceramic letters can also be used to create name plates, while stone, marble, mirror and wrought iron are other common options. One can custom make name plates in various shapes, like rectangle, square, oval, round, house-shaped and other irregular shapes. The name plates can be etched with motifs, or engraved with images of deities, or have photographs with floral designs, eye catching calligraphy, etc.

Vastu Shastra principles for name plates

According to a Vastu Shastra and astrology expert, home owners should always put up a name plate, as it is like a ‘tikka’ on the forehead.

“As per Vastu Shastra principles, the main door of a home is not only the entry point for the family, but also for energy. So, if your home doesn’t have a name plate, it will be difficult for opportunities to find their way to you. A name plate should be readable, clear and pleasing to the eye. Choose the correct material for the name plate, for positivity and harmony. A metal name plate is recommended, if the door is in the north or west direction. Use a wooden name plate, if the door is in the south or east direction. It is also good to decorate a home’s entrance with pictures or statues of Ganesh or auspicious signs such as Om, or the Swastika or even some shlokas.”

Personalised name plates are in vogue

Modern-day home owners prefer personalised name plates. Consequently, name plate designs often incorporate themes or the interest of family members, or the profession of a person, etc., says “Traditionally, the trend has been to write one’s surname on the name plate. Then, people started writing their complete name. Now, people write their family name, along with the names of all members, including children. Recently, a client asked us to leave a blank space on the name plate, to add the name of a ‘soon to be born’ baby. People also add their pets’ names and photos on the name plates, as they are considered part of the families. With a growing trend of naming bungalows, row houses, villas and apartments, even these names get inscribed on the name plate. Regional language name plates have become very popular,”

Tips for putting up a name plate at the home’s entrance

– Always have a name plate on the main door or the adjoining wall, if the space permits, as it is believed to attract prosperity, opportunities and well-being.
– Ensure that the name plate is large enough to write one’s name or surname and the house number and is legible from at least a foot or two away.
– The design chosen for the name plate, should blend well with the main door.
– The main door, as well as the name plate should be well-lit.
– Keep the name plate stylish but simple. Do not clutter it with too many designs, calligraphy, engravings, and idols of deities.
– Ensure that the name plate is regularly cleaned and is dust free.