Sun, orientation and ventilation for a house in Bangladesh
Bangladesh lies at around 21 to 26 degrees north. The sun is high in summer, lower in winter, and in the hot months it rises and sets slightly north of east and west. These facts shape a comfortable layout.
Which side gets what
- South side: gets winter sun, and a short overhang shades it in summer when the sun is nearly overhead. Good for living rooms and bedrooms.
- West side: receives strong afternoon heat. Put bathrooms, stairs, storage or a veranda here, and keep windows small and shaded.
- East side: gives gentle morning sun. Good for kitchens and bedrooms.
- North side: has soft, steady light. Good for study rooms and kitchens, but it gets little winter sun.
Breeze
In summer, the prevailing wind often comes from the south or south-east. Open windows on that side, and put an opening on the opposite wall so air passes through the room. A window with no matching opening on another wall brings little breeze.
Shade and rain
Deep verandas, chajja (sunshades) and trees reduce heat. Heavy monsoon rain means window and door heads need drip details and proper waterproofing on the roof.
Test a design with a sun path
The PlanCraft 3D planner has an interactive north arrow and sun controls. Rotate north to match your plot, choose a month and the time of day, and the 3D view shows the sun angle and shadows. Try the summer solstice at 3 pm to see how much heat a west wall will take.
Orientation is only one factor. Plot shape, neighbours and road access often decide the layout, so treat these points as guidance.
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