Builders & Renovations FAQs
What does the aspect of a house mean?
What does the aspect of a house mean?
Building a home can be an overwhelming and complex process with numerous “aspects” to consider (excuse the pun!). So, let's start with one of the basics, but one of the most important factors: the aspect.
The aspect is the main outlook or view from your property. As opposed to the orientation which is the direction that your home faces. They seem similar, yes, but when it comes to building your dream home, the aspect is the superior as your living and costs in the long run will be greatly affected by it.
Many property buyers and sellers deem a north-facing home as the holy grail; but, why?
North facing aspect
Having a north-facing aspect, in Australia, for your new home creates the ideal living environment due to the main living areas being seeped in the most natural light. Even if the front of your new home doesn't face north (orientation), having the lounge, kitchen, dining room and, if possible, the garden north-facing, will drench these areas in sunlight for the maximum time year-round. North-facing also means that if you plan on having solar panels, they will produce the highest yield of power.
Optimising natural light in your home certainly brightens the feel as if the aspect is a different direction, your home can be darker during the day and can seem a tad gloomy in your main rooms. Not only is a lighter, brighter home more preferable for the ambience, but this can also greatly affect your utility bills as in a drab home, you'll be needing to have the lights on more. In mid-summer, the sun will be directly above these rooms and so they will remain in the shade, limiting the heat gain; whilst still allowing in the light through winter during the sun's low trajectory. Adding deep eaves protruding over the windows will provide shade to keep the interior cool.
East facing aspect
Designing your home to an east-facing aspect will allow you to enjoy our stunning east coast sunrises as well as the pleasure of the warmth of the morning sun, which will be over by midday. The downside of an east-facing property is that in the winter, you won't get much warmth from the sun at all and may need artificial heat sources to provide it.
South facing aspect
If your property has a southerly aspect, you won't get much sunlight into your home. Just because north-facing is the best aspect, it doesn't necessarily mean that south-facing is the worst. There will be little sun in the winters to warm and brighten your main living areas, but in the summer though, you will be benefiting from direct sunlight.
That being said, south-facing houses often face difficulties with condensation due to the differing temperatures outside and in. As there isn't enough sun coming into the house, condensation can lead to mildew and mould. This could potentially be mitigated or at least managed by incorporating large windows at the rear of the property, which would be north-facing, and reap the benefits of this. Also, incorporating skylights into the house designs can help alleviate the effects of a southerly aspect.
However, as with all things, positives can be found in south-facing houses. Namely, that the garden will be more protected from the harsh sun and so perfect for summer BBQs and backyard cricket without getting frazzled!
West facing aspect
OK so the west-facing homes get the wooden spoon prize when it comes to aspects. A westerly home will be sheltered from the morning summer sun but come the afternoon and evening, you will face the full strength of the hot sun, creating some particularly sticky summers! So, if you wish to be comfortable in the summer, you will need to have the air conditioning on frequently, which will drive up the utility bills. But, the winters however, will bring an abundance of afternoon sun bringing much appreciated light and warmth.
The exception to the aspect rule
So, in conclusion, if you're looking to design your new home, north to north-east facing is the prime aspect to strive for. But, there are exceptions to every rule, and in some cases for example in a city centre or close to an iconic view or landmark, it would be preferable to make the most of that view instead of prioritising the light. Just be mindful in this instance to have large windows to bring in as much as you can from the north.
Enlist the help of your leading professional home builder
Looking to build your dream home but not sure where to start? Need to talk to an expert about what aspect is best for you? Our experienced home builders at Symcorp can help answer all your questions and work to your needs and budget.
Whether it’s for a home renovation or a new home build, we can help simplify the process and help you through the undertaking. Check out our completed projects here.
Speak to one of our friendly team today on 07 55587 3812 or complete our online enquiry form.