At the start of a building design project, assess the site for:

• the amount of sun
• the sun paths throughout the year
• current and future shading patterns (trees grow, buildings may be constructed on adjacent sites)
• the shading effects of the proposed building on the site.

To maximise the sun’s benefits:

• locate the building where it will have minimal shading by obstructions such as neighbouring buildings, large trees or landforms for as much of the day as possible
• build close to the south boundary to maximise the solar gain if there are current or potential obstructions on the northern side.

 

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Passive design>Controlling temperature>Orientation