Real estate developers notice that today buyers choose the “perfect” direction of world countries not according to standard formulas, but according to their biological clock, profession, or even children’s needs.
“The traditional question ‘are the windows facing south?’ is no longer decisive in the new apartment market. As an architect, I always see the design of buildings and spaces through the scenarios of human daily life. The modern buyer wants the living space to serve their personal rhythm. For representatives of certain professions or families, intense southern sun sometimes becomes not an advantage, but a challenge they consciously avoid,” says architect and real estate development company “Citus” development manager Aušrinė Sinkevičienė.
The expert agrees – modern solutions such as advanced cooling, ventilation systems, and high-quality windows have allowed architects to fully control the building microclimate, so today the choice of window orientation has become purely an emotional and practical buyer decision.
What direction do different types of city dwellers choose and how does it dictate interior rules?
The northern side – a paradise for “night owls” and the youngest family members
The biggest myth architects have to face is that the northern side is dark and gloomy. In modern apartment buildings, where window areas are maximized, the north offers something invaluable – even, calm, and non-tiring light.
According to A. Sinkevičienė, the northern or northwest direction is especially purposefully sought after by representatives of specific, night, or hybrid professions.
“In our practice, we encounter clients such as aviation workers – flight attendants, pilots, as well as medical professionals or event organizers whose work rhythm does not match the standard day. Returning after a night shift or a long flight early in the morning, aggressive, direct sun rays in the bedroom only disturb sleep quality. They need a cool, calm space where the body can rest well at any time of day,” says the “Citus” architect and development manager.
Another group for whom the northern direction architecturally becomes increasingly attractive is conscious young families planning children’s rooms. Northern light is the most stable; it does not create sharp contrasts or deep shadows. These are ideal conditions for a child’s eyes when doing homework, reading, drawing, or playing on the computer in the room. Moreover, these rooms do not overheat in spring and summer afternoons.
Interior designer Marius Morozovas recommends choosing warmer wall shades in northern rooms because they provide more coziness and compensate for the cooler natural light, but emphasizes that everything depends on the person’s needs and lifestyle. Some like very bright spaces, others seek a calmer and darker atmosphere for rest.
Morning sun – for “larks” and natural waking rituals
Homes with windows facing east are usually chosen by those whose morning starts early and with an energy boost. These are people for whom waking up with nature is important.
“The morning direction is a matter of emotional choice. It is chosen by those for whom a perfect Saturday begins on a yoga mat in the sun’s rays or with a slow cup of coffee by the kitchen island while the city is just waking up. Architecturally, the first morning light acts as a natural alarm clock, giving an impulse for the whole day,” says A. Sinkevičienė.
According to the interior specialist, natural and pastel tones reveal themselves very beautifully in morning rooms, and the morning sun creates a feeling of freshness and cleanliness.
“Many people specifically choose morning light because they enjoy morning coffee with the rising sun and do not want harsh light at home in the evenings. Therefore, the most important thing is not the rules but how a person wants to feel in their home,” says M. Morozovas.
Afternoons and evenings – for home offices and city dynamics
The southwest direction remains popular among those who spend most of the day at home, such as freelancers, programmers, or creatives working from a home office. It is important for them that natural light in the room lasts as long as possible.
This direction is also ideal for spacious living rooms where the whole family gathers in the evenings or guests are received – the setting sun creates a cozy, warm scenario for evening relaxation after work.
The interior designer points out that in southern and western rooms, darker colors and brighter accents can be used more boldly because the sun naturally enlivens them. Sometimes individual solutions are needed for non-standard windows. Some clients choose completely dark curtains, others light transparent fabrics. The most important thing is to preserve natural daylight as much as possible because it strongly affects a person’s well-being and mood.
How to choose correctly?
Instead of blindly following universal recommendations, real estate experts advise performing a simple test before buying an apartment – visualize your personal ideal day scenario.
“We, architects, always urge clients not to think about housing only by looking at a standard plan. Housing is a three-dimensional space where light plays the main role. Think about where you want to see the sun – while having breakfast or only after returning from a long workday? The best and most valuable apartment is the one whose light dynamics perfectly match your inner rhythm and lifestyle,” summarizes “Citus” architect and development manager Aušrinė Sinkevičienė.
