1. Sunlight orientation
Use the sun to heat and light the interior while avoiding summer gains.
- North–south alignment: Face the long side south in most latitudes to capture winter sun and limit summer load.
- Glazing strategy: Larger windows south, smaller north. Add exterior shading sized to the solar altitude.
- Thermal zoning: Place day spaces on the south side. Keep storage and utilities north.
2. Wind and ventilation
Exploit prevailing breezes for cooling and air quality.
- Cross-vent paths: Align openings across the wind corridor. Keep interior doors with high/low vents.
- Stack effect: Add higher exhaust windows or vents to purge hot air.
- Windbreaks: Use trees or fences to slow harsh winter winds without blocking airflow.
3. Topography and drainage
Keep the structure dry and stable.
- Avoid low spots: Site above swales and flood-prone areas.
- Positive fall: Grade away from the perimeter at 5 percent for the first 3 meters.
- Clearance: Maintain at least 150 mm under modular frames for airflow and inspection.
4. Privacy and noise
Orient sensitive rooms away from exposure and traffic.
- Acoustic buffers: Place bathrooms, closets, or storage toward the road side.
- Green screens: Use hedges and berms to filter views and sound.
- Sightlines: Angle windows to frame views and avoid neighbors.
5. Access and utilities
Plan clean logistics from day one.
- Drive and crane access: Ensure turning radii and stable staging for delivery.
- RV-style hookups: Keep clear routes to water, power, and sewer. Label shutoffs.
- Off-grid layout: Position solar for unshaded sun, and place tanks near service walls with drain access.
6. Environmental integration
Preserve what works on site.
- Keep mature trees: Shade, habitat, and roots that stabilize soil.
- Minimize cut and fill: Follow terrain to reduce erosion and cost.
- Permeable surfaces: Use gravel or pavers to keep runoff low.
7. Aesthetic harmony
Place for views and daily rituals.
- Frame moments: Sunrise at the kitchen, sunset from the deck.
- Outdoor rooms: Align doors to patios and shade trees.
- Night glow: Avoid light spill. Shield fixtures and keep skies dark.
Quick checklist
- Long façade faces south
- Cross-vent windows aligned with prevailing wind
- Site graded with positive drainage
- Bedrooms away from road noise
- Clear delivery path and utility access
- Trees preserved and hardscape permeable
- Views framed and light pollution controlled
