North Facing Elevation:

Isn’t North facing elevation a term that you’ve heard already? If not, you can expect what North facing elevation is all about, how they are categorized and there are a lot of other details here as well. North elevation in simple terms, refers to the main view a building or a house is presented at. This is also known as the front elevation.

This guide will help you understand more about North Facing Elevation on a deeper level.

What is North Facing Elevation?

Let’s say you are standing outside of a building, and you are viewing the building in the Southern direction. So the direction you are facing here is South, and this view of the building that you are witnessing is the “North Facing Elevation.”

North Facing elevations aren’t the only type of elevation, there are east, west, and south as well. Usually, elevations are the flat representations of the building’s exterior from one angle which shows its height, design features, and materials. And north elevations are defined by the way their arrows are pointed in the drawings, if they are pointed towards the north, they are North Elevations.

The front elevation for north facing house is designed in a way where it permits natural light, and reduces the usage of tubes or other varieties of light. When planning to proceed with a project, it is mandatory to pay attention to each elevation, and if you are planning to take in the project with the north-facing elevation the building will deal with cooling strategies by reducing glare and over-heating. There are a few other benefits you can acquire from North Facing Elevation. Now you might have some idea about how elevation design for north facing house​ works, now lets dive deep into its characteristics.

Characteristics of North Facing Elevations

Improved Energy Utilization:

Natural Light Utilization: With North facing elevation homes or buildings you can experience the benefits of natural light throughout the day. This means you will have a reduced usage for artificial lighting. This also means that there will be lower energy consumption overall. 

Passive Solar Heating:

Direct sunlight for a longer span of time may result in skin diseases, after all, anything in abundance isn’t a blessing right? But there’s no need to worry about the sun’s direct heat in this case, as the sunlight exposure isn’t placed in a manner where it is exposed completely.

Temperature Control:

With adequate sunlight exposure north facing homes can benefit from a comfortable indoor environment but avoiding harsh sunlight from the west, especially in the afternoon.

A better air flow:

Homes can optimize the surplus amount of airflow, which contributes the best for a pleasant living space throughout the year. Your home is multiple steps behind when it comes to direct UV rays exposure. It is also believed that north-faced houses attract good vibes and prosperity. 

Shading strategies:

Homes that are placed in the North Facing elevations also enjoy the benefits of maximum shades. After referring to a few trustable sources on what are the timing the sun exposure is high, it commonly circles a timeframe that aligns between 10.00 A.M to 4:00 P.M. But as mentioned already, you don’t have to worry much about the UV rays exposure, North Facing elevation homes usually implement decent shading strategies in-built. These careful designs help to maintain adequate airflow, without excessive reliance on the cooling mechanism. Indeed we can say this is a better reason to conclude that there are Sustainable Features in North Elevations.

Types of Floor Plans in North Facing Elevations:

Before we discuss in detail about the floor plans there are a few key considerations when you choose the north facing floor plans. At first, it is nothing but the window placement. If you find that the windows are large, then they must be positioned on the north side in order to maximize the light intake. On the other hand, there must be a relatively small opening at the west side to reduce the heat absorption.

The other main thing to consider is room orientation, as living areas face the north to utilize the sunlight during daytime, the bedrooms may be placed in the cooler areas.

Concept Floor Plans:

These designs usually are at a larger aspect, as they are interconnected spaces that combine the dining area, living room, and kitchen. There’s a maximum use of natural light from the windows pointed north side, and this promotes better airflow. The open layout attracts the public attention and also creates a spacious feel.

Zoning Floor Plans:

This type differentiates and divides the home into distinct zones for various activities. To name a few we can say some are private, and some zoning floor plans can be considered for semi-private usage and for public areas in contrast.

Split-Level Floor Plans:

This lets you use your space for creative uses and enhances the view from different levels. In specific the “staggered design” helps you in managing sunlight exposure and the airflow effortlessly.

Courtyard Floor Plans:

The courtyard serves as an outdoor living area that manages to capture sunlight and simultaneously provides shade to the other rooms. In other words, we can say this enhances the ventilation factor here.

L-Shaped or U-Shaped Floor plans:

The designs in the form of “L” or “U” contain a patio area or probably a garden. And they stay as a powerhouse for privacy for the outdoor spaces as well.

Multi-Story Floor Plans:

Last but not least, Multi-Story floor plans are the best for homes with two or more floors to utilize the vertical space. The upper levels capture more sunlight and the lower levels engage in maintaining a cooler exposure to the surrounding rooms in the hot weather. This view is also appreciated for better views and increased privacy.

North facing elevation single floor

North facing elevation g+1

North Facing elevation G+1 is typically a building design consisting of one ground floor and an additional floor, and its outward representation is oriented towards the North. This orientation plays a lot of advantageous roles respective to climate changes, as it adapts natural lighting throughout the day while minimizing the direct UV rays in the mid-noon.

From the architectural point of view, we can very well say north facing elevation for G+1 has an added advantage for its surroundings. From the beginning of the architecture to this day elevation north face plays a crucial role when it comes to maximizing natural light. To be more precise north facing house elevation can elevate the aesthetic appeal while promising comfort around the surroundings.

The uniqueness of the north facing elevation lies in its reliance to captivate with energy efficiency. Building adapting these patterns enjoy the cooler interiors in the hot summers. Another benefit you will experience from the north facing elevation is a wide opportunity for a stable and comfortable temperature throughout the year.

North Facing Elevations for Modern Homes

North facing elevation in modern homes has become one of the popular selections for its numeral advantages such as design and functionality. In modern architectural values, the north facing elevation can adapt to sleep lines and contemporary materials which reflect current runs and simultaneously maintain energy efficiency as well. 

When you are considering a north facing house with a front elevation for a double floor the architects utilize innovative layouts and materials to attain striking visual impact. The north face house elevation design prioritizes more functionality, and it makes an ideal look for families considering a spacious living area. A modern north face house front elevation has the ability to harmonize its surroundings by providing elegance to the homeowners.

These designs also emphasize open floor plans to connect with outdoor and indoor spaces this allows a seamless transmission and also maximizes the views of landscape areas. 

They also utilize sustainable building practices one we can point our fingers at is the solar design principle which inevitably leads to lower energy consumption. This orientation is not just for eco-friendliness but also aligns with growing demands for buildings and houses that prioritize environmental responsibility.

Design and Functionality Tips for North Facing Elevation Homes:

Designing north facing elevations building requires quite a lot of other elements that deal with its aesthetic appeal and functionality. These are some components you must consider, followed by that there are tips on utilizing the best practice.

1. Increased Natural Lighting:

The proper utilization of large windows and glass doors allows ample amounts of natural light to seep in. Studies reveal that optimizing (WWR) Window-to-wall ratios between a range starting from 26% and 33% for the north facing enhances daylight penetration.

2. Usage of Appropriate Materials:

The materials required to reflect a better performance in the north elevation homes are contemporary designs while paying attention to their durability. And energy-efficient glazing improves the thermal performance compared to standard windows.

3. Landscaping:

Landscaping elements include trees, shrubs, and other complements that contribute to the surrounding space. 

4. Entryway Design:

Designing an inviting entrance adheres a unique look towards its main entrance. There are a few features to consider as well, such as overhangs or awnings to improve energy efficiency.

5. The color schemes:

Choosing neutral colors helps in reflecting sunlight and creates a sense of openness. Lighter colors focus on heat absorption compared to darker tones.

6. Seasonal Changes

The sunlight pattern shifts every season, here window placement plays a crucial role. To be precise we can say window placement is primary when it comes to the shading elements. A proper planning invites comfortable temperatures, you can connect with professionals for your home construction needs.

7. Modern Aesthetics:

Sleek lines are minimalist designs are the main elements that reflect modern architectural trends. While constructing a home it is preferred to ensure the north facing elevation is both visually and functionally appealing.

8. Consulting with professionals:

There are architects and designers specialized in north-facing elevations. So it meets your expectations and specific needs and preferences which promises a cohesive and effective design.

How Vastu impacts North Facing Elevations?

Vastu Shastra is emphasized as a catalyst for home construction, as these directions are particularly believed to transfer auspicious energy as per the ancient Indian science in architecture and design. Vastu is set to attract wealth, positive energy, and prosperity. And a north facing duplex house elevation is talked of as highly auspicious in the Vasthu Shastra.

A well-planned north face elevation design can help you promote health and well-being, especially for women.

Vastu Principles in North Facing Elevations:

1. Orientation and Scope:

The aspect of North facing house must always slope towards the north or the east direction. This aspect is believed to increase the existing prosperity and ensure a steady flow of comfort and positive energy.

Note: Double-check if the elevation isn’t slope towards the southwest, this can lead to several health and financial losses.

2. Main Entrance Design:

The entrance door or the main door is the access for anyone to enter our beloved home, this is advised to contain elements that are made of wood alone. Avoiding red or maroon colors to paint the main door invites positive energy, as usually red has a tendency to attract negative energy.

3. Placement of Rooms:

Placement of bedrooms in the west or at the Southwest direction can enhance stability and well-being. Make sure the kitchen isn’t placed in the Northeast, as this can affect your career prospects and health.

North Facing Elevation Designs: (Pinterest posts)

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

Conclusion:

As we wrap up this detailed guide, we have shed adequate light on the concepts you might have known with a new perspective. And it is obvious that it is never that easy, to handle everything all alone. So when it comes to constructing a home as per your tailored wants, it is preferred to connect with professionals. They can guide on you what to do, and what not to do.

FAQ’s:

1. How many types of elevations are there for a house?

The four types of elevation are north, east, west, and south.

2. How does north-facing orientation influence energy consumption throughout the year?

The north-facing elevation makes use of natural light, and passive solar heating during the wintertime. Which reflects with a minimized heat gain during the summertime.

3. What are the floor plans in North Facing Elevation?

There are open-concept floor plans, Zoning floor plans, Split-level floor plans, courtyard floor plans, L-shaped floor plans (U-shaped floor plans), and Multi-Story floor plans.

4. What is Vastu?

Vastu Shastra is emphasized as a catalyst for home construction, as these directions are particularly believed to transfer auspicious energy as per the ancient Indian science in architecture and design. Vastu is set to attract wealth, positive energy, and prosperity. 

A well-planned north face elevation design can help you promote health and well-being, especially for women.