We're building in Maine, with many NSB concepts in mind. Our site and main view are west facing. The lot to the south has many trees. North is more open. For many reasons, our architect's first design has the kitchen on north side, with few windows. I tried flipping the design, but it doesn't work. This sounds pretty dreary, but it's really hard getting a better plan. Any thoughts? Will I regret this? Meg

Meg,

I asked Sarah about this and she says that it sounds as though the room windows and orientations are based on energy efficiency. This is good, but if the energy efficiency is contrary to the views from the windows, the views should govern your decision about window placement. Otherwise, you won't enjoy living in the house. Try to find a compromise with both view and energy efficiency.

She also says that Westerly windows can be a problem in terms of heat gain in the late afternoon (though I'm not sure if this is an issue in Maine). If this is a concern, a well-located tree can provide good shading against sun penetration.

If that isn't really the issue, Sarah suggests that you ask your architect to "throw up the marbles" and try a completely different plan. It sounds like you aren't happy with this one, and it might be better to just start over.

Marie

Meg, what did you decide? In our own building plans, we're wrestling with views vs. energy efficiency vs. simple logistics. Did the final design meet your needs?

Hi, anait.
You are also in a cold northern climate!
Well, we stuck with the original plan, which is being built now.
Any annoying westerly afternoon sun from the only real view side, we'll deal with if it becomes a problem.
re the north kitchen. I looked around our current neighborhood and realized not everyone could have the luxury of a southern exposure. As my niece pointed out, reflected light outside the kitchen windows can add important light, as well. As the kitchen will be part of an open LR/DR area anyway, indirect light will come in from other directions as well.
(I may even be able to eke out a small interior transom window on the kitchen's south wall, about shelves, after we move in. I believe interior windows are an underused feature!)

Good luck! Meg