House Orientation on Lot

[Jacob Anstaett]

Hello BP,

I just purchased a piece of property for the purpose of building a new single family home.  The lot is 2.5 acres, and has frontage on two streets.  We are trying to figure out the best orientation for the house.  If we face it one way it would have a large side yard and small back yard, and the other way would be the exact opposite.  I would love to hear anyone else's opinions.  The lot is the field below and is actually a little deeper that it looks as the neighbor is mowing a small portion that is ours.  

[Seth Holmen]

Here is one thing to consider. If you build a rectangular shaped house, have the long face of the house face south. The short ends face east/west. Put your garage on the North. This is the best orientation for daylight and energy efficiency. You will have a nice bright house. 

Put living spaces on south and west sides.  Stairs/ mud room / laundry on North. east is good for bedrooms and kitchen. Nice morning light.