Maximise Orientation and View When Building In Melbourne: Tips for North, South, West and East

For South-facing windows, double glazing is the only sensible option to avoid cold no-go zones in winter.

View to the West: Hmmm. With a view to the West, you have one of the more challenging scenarios in Melbourne, because with the sinking sun (as in any time from 1:00 onwards) west-facing windows will be subjected to harsh summer heat. If you want to take advantage of a West-facing view, be strategic. Keep your windows small enough that you can shade them easily; at least waist high and horizontal rather than vertical. You will require some form of external awning, sun blind, or window tinting (possibly all of the above). Double-glazing is always recommended, though it will not stop radiant heat. Eaves will help, but verandas are your best option; a 2-metre wide (or wider) veranda will allow you to lengthen the day before you need to pull down the blinds.

View to the East: With a view to the East, summer sun is not such a problem. Melbourne's sun in the morning is not at its strongest. (Sun in the morning can be inspirational.) We would still suggest horizontal windows in this scenario, and internal blinds.

Tops of Hills: This is one of those rare situations where you may have a flat block with a view. In this case, all of the above strategies can be taken into consideration.

Magnificent View Override Factor: Unless your view is to the North, you will always need to consider the size and placement of windows. However, there are a few instances where the view is so magnificent that it overrides all other factors no matter which way the panorama windows will be facing (for instance, looking over the ocean at Mount Martha). Then all you can do is make sure that you put in the best quality windows you can afford (double-glazing will become your best friend) and maximise the use of eaves, awnings and drapes.

P.S. All houses should have eaves (or verandas).

P.P.S. Double glazing is one of the best choices you will ever make.

In Melbourne, we enjoy some lovely hilly scenery. Because of certain trends in building, hilly and sloping blocks are often cheaper to buy. If you purchase a hilly block, with some thoughtful designing, you will be able to strike a compromise between solar orientation and beautiful views that will give you and your family ongoing comfort and enjoyment. Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia. It is widely considered as one of the best cities in the world to live in. The city is home to everything from historical landmarks to modern high-rise buildings. It is also the cultural hub of the country and is home to numerous institutions such as the Australian film industry, Australian dance styles such as the shuffle and the new vogue, the Australian impressionist art movement, etc.

Located on the river Yarra, Southbank is one of the central points of the city. It has some of the best shopping areas, food courts and high-class restaurants in the entire city. The Royal Botanical Gardens is one of the finest places to visit in Melbourne. Grampians national park, Philip Island, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, etc. jumping castle hire melbourne