Who this guide is for
- Homeowners planning a new build, extension or reconfiguration
- Anyone working with an architect on window design
- People wanting better daylight and views
- Renovators rethinking where windows go
Orientation and the quality of light
Light differs by orientation. North-facing windows give soft, even light; south-facing rooms receive the most sun; east and west bring strong morning and evening light. Knowing each elevation's character guides where windows belong.
Match the light a room wants to its orientation, since a space used in the morning has different needs from one used at night.
Size, position and how light enters
It is not just whether a room has windows but where they sit. A high window throws light deep into a room; a low one frames a view; windows on two walls reduce glare and balance light.
Plan window size and position around how light should fall and how the room is used, not just the facade's appearance.
- High windows for deeper light
- Windows on two walls to balance light
- Position framing views
- Size suited to the room's use
Views, privacy and connection
Windows frame views and connect inside to outside, but they also affect privacy and overlooking. Siting windows toward the best outlooks while managing privacy is a balancing act.
Consider what each window will look out on and who can look in, and plan placement to capture views without sacrificing privacy.
Glare, heat and comfort
More glass is not always better. Large or poorly placed windows can cause glare and heat gain, especially on sun-facing elevations. Window planning should consider comfort alongside light, often with shading in mind.
Coordinate window placement with shading and the wider design so the result is comfortable, not just bright.
Window and daylight planning checklist
- 1Note each room's orientation and light character
- 2Match light needs to room use
- 3Plan window position for how light should fall
- 4Consider windows on two walls to balance light
- 5Site windows toward the best views
- 6Manage privacy and overlooking
- 7Consider glare and heat on sunny elevations
- 8Coordinate placement with shading and design
Common mistakes to avoid
- Placing windows for the facade, not the light
- Ignoring orientation and light quality
- Forgetting privacy and overlooking
- Assuming more glass is always better
- Overlooking glare and heat on sunny sides
- Lighting from one wall, causing imbalance
When to involve a professional
- Detailed daylight design is work for qualified architects and designers
- Structural implications of openings require qualified assessment
- Performance outcomes vary by orientation, site and design
- Coordinate window placement with shading through your design team
- Costs and outcomes vary by project and location
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers ask about this topic
Does window orientation really matter?
Yes. North-facing windows give soft, even light, south-facing rooms receive the most sun, and east and west bring strong morning and evening light. Matching a room's light needs to its orientation is central to good daylight planning.
Is more glass always better for light?
No. Large or poorly placed windows can cause glare and heat gain, especially on sun-facing elevations. Window planning balances light with comfort, often coordinating placement with shading rather than simply maximising glass.
How does window position affect a room?
Position shapes how light enters. A high window throws light deeper into a room, a low one frames a view, and windows on two walls balance light and reduce glare. Plan position around how light should fall and how the room is used.
How do I balance views and privacy?
Site windows toward the best outlooks while considering who can look in and what each window faces. It is a balancing act, so plan placement to capture views without sacrificing privacy, with help from your design team.
Keep reading