West-facing plots are sometimes passed over, and often cost less as a result. With the right layout — and a front designed for the afternoon sun — they make very good houses.
Typical West-Facing Layout
| Zone | In a west-facing house | Commonly placed |
|---|---|---|
| North-west | Front-left (facing the house from the road) | Main door portion, guest room |
| South-west | Front-right | Master bedroom |
| South-east | Rear-right | Kitchen |
| North-east | Rear-left | Pooja room, sump, open space |
| Centre | Middle | Open hall |
The Main Door
Commonly in the north-west portion of the west wall, and away from the south-west portion. Because the sump and borewell go to the north-east — the rear of the plot — plan the water line and access for tankers early.
Designing a Cool West Front
The front of a west-facing house faces the hottest afternoon sun from March to June. Design responses:
| Measure | Effect |
|---|---|
| 8 or 9 inch AAC external walls at the front | Much less heat through the wall |
| Smaller, shaded west windows | Less direct sun into rooms |
| A deep sit-out, verandah or balcony | Shades the front wall |
| Vertical fins or a jaali screen | Blocks low afternoon sun |
| Trees on the west side (outside setbacks) | Natural shade |
| Light-coloured exterior | Absorbs less heat |
The master bedroom often sits at the front south-west in this layout, so its west wall needs the most attention.
The Short Version
Door in the north-west of the front wall, kitchen south-east at the rear, master bedroom south-west at the front, water north-east at the rear — and a front wall designed for the afternoon sun.
