Which way a window faces changes how much light comes in and when. In temperate Northern Hemisphere homes, an unobstructed south-facing window gives the most light. University of Illinois Extension describes the spot directly in front of a north window as medium light, directly in front of an east or west window as bright light, and directly in front of a south window as direct light.
Near the equator the picture is different. The sun rises a little north of due east for half the year and a little south of due east for the other half, so a window that gets sun in one season may not in another. In places such as Malaysia, it is more reliable to watch your own windows than to follow a compass rule written for temperate homes.
Wherever you live, what stands outside the window matters too. Roof overhangs, balconies above, neighbouring buildings and trees can all cut the light a window lets in, and the effect of trees and the sun's path changes with the seasons.
Key points
- In temperate northern homes, south windows are brightest and north windows dimmest.
- Near the equator the sun's path shifts north and south, so observe your own windows.
- Overhangs, buildings and trees can matter as much as direction.
Try this
On one day this week, note which of your windows get direct sun and at what time of day.
Check yourself
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Sources
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