How does window orientation affect a flat?

Window orientation is one of the basic elements a client pays attention to when viewing a flat. It is not as important a factor as location or the layout of the rooms, but it is not without significance. The amount and intensity of the daylight reaching the flat determine our well-being and quality of life. Depending on whether the windows face north or perhaps east, the attractiveness of the property, and thus its price, varies. So which window orientation is considered the best?

The ideal flat would be one with windows facing all four points of the compass. Such a layout occurs in detached houses, but on housing estates, in blocks of flats, it is generally hard to come by. That is why the south-west aspect is considered the most advantageous window orientation in a flat.

When viewing a flat for sale, a client will probably ask about the position of individual rooms. It is then worth informing them about additional factors that limit or increase sunlight – a high or low floor, or the presence or absence of trees.

In truth, no flat is unambiguously attractive on account of window orientation. A lot depends on the lifestyle of the particular residents. We should therefore point out that every aspect can be turned to one's advantage by making suitable use of individual rooms.

In rooms with south-facing windows, it is darker and cooler in the morning, while the amount of light and the temperature rise considerably in the afternoon. The benefit of such an orientation? Extra warmth for the home and savings on heating.

As for an eastern aspect, it is ideal for early birds. People who are active early in the morning should set up their bedroom in a room with east-facing windows. East-facing windows are also suitable for a kitchen – at lunch-preparation time the sun does not shine into the interior as intensely, and the room makes use of the heat from cooking. It is also a very bright room.

People who work at night and sleep during the day should arrange their bedroom in a room with windows facing south or north. In such rooms it is simply darker before noon. North-facing windows also work for rooms where we rarely spend time, e.g. a walk-in wardrobe or a pantry.

The question of a study and rooms for work is more of an individual matter. Some people find darker, cooler rooms more conducive (they help concentration). On the other hand, there is scientific evidence that a large amount of daylight stimulates the brain to work and drives away drowsiness, so a place for study and work at home should be arranged according to individual preferences.

West-facing windows are considered the most problematic, as very strong sunlight comes through them in the second half of the day. Flats with many windows facing west are usually somewhat cheaper than others.

It is worth knowing that the sunlight a flat receives is regulated by law. At least one room must receive sunlight for at least three hours on 21 March and 21 September, that is, on the days of the spring and autumn equinoxes.