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Site orientation:
The best way to orient a home is with its long axis running east to west. With this orientation, the longest side of the home faces south. The south is the sunniest direction and hence the warmest, so orienting a building this way maximizes solar heat gain.
Window selection:
The easiest way to heat a home with solar energy is to simply let sunshine in through the windows. As sunlight passes through, it heats the home's surfaces, helping to keep the home warm. Since windows increase the likelihood of energy loss, it's important to consider window design, insulation properties, shading techniques, and other strategies that keep heat where it's wanted most.
Landscaping:
Landscaping is a great option for optimizing solar heat gain and shading. Landscaping can help shade the sides of a home to reduce solar heat gain during warmer months. Mature deciduous trees, which lose their leaves during the winter, will let warming sunlight through when it's colder out. Growing trees on the south and east or west side will be useful.
Overhangs and awnings:
Roof overhangs and window awnings perform a function similar to landscaping. When overhangs and awnings are properly sized, they shade windows in the summer and let in sunlight in the winter (when the sun is lower in the sky) and prevents rain penetration.
Natural cooling:
When used correctly, outdoor air is a cost-effective way to reduce a home's cooling load. Cross-ventilation increases the amount of air flowing through rooms, and opening windows during a cool night allows heat to escape. Roof ventilators that work with the louver and window strategies are designed to control the exhaust or outflow of air from the building.
Central Courtyard:
The courtyard is a semi open space with a shading roof to prevent solar access in summer. It is intended to provide a 'cool pool' for cross ventilation of adjacent spaces. It allows spaces for relaxation and interaction of occupants, whilst providing for ventilation and natural light penetration. The courtyard is designed to operate as a large funnel drawing outdoor air through the walkways and openings creating a breeze in the occupied area particularly in the summer season.
Views:
The presence of a desirable or undesirable view on a residential site is typically a major determinant of the window orientation. In the case of an undesirable view such as a highway or an adjacent building, the orientation of major window openings away from the view is important.
Good Orientation:
It means proper placement of rooms in relation to sun, wind, rain, topography and outlook, and at the same time providing convenient access both to the street and backyard.
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