What benefit does an east-facing orientation provide for buildings?

An east-facing orientation offers several benefits, particularly in terms of solar gain. Buildings oriented to the east capture sunlight effectively in the morning. This is advantageous in cooler climates where morning sunlight can help warm the building early in the day. As a result, the space benefits from increased daylight and warmth during the hours when it is often most needed, which can enhance comfort for occupants.

In climates with significant temperature fluctuations, morning solar gain can also lead to energy savings, as it may reduce the dependence on heating systems in the early part of the day. This orientation allows for natural light influx without the intense heat that can come later in the day from the south or west, making it conducive for balancing light and comfort without leading to overheating in the afternoons.

This characteristic contrasts with preventing overheating in the late afternoon or maximizing natural light throughout the day, which are considerations more aligned with other orientations or design strategies. Reducing the need for artificial lighting entirely is also typically unrealistic, as factors like building form, window placement, or geographical location play a significant role in daylighting strategies that contribute to reducing reliance on electric lighting.