Placement determines comfort, efficiency, and maintenance. Design with the site, not against it. And this is what we suggest to maximize the comfort in our CHOMEX Homes.
1. Sunlight orientation
Use the sun to heat and light the interior while avoiding summer gains.
- North–south alignment: Face the long side south in most latitudes to capture winter sun and limit summer load.
- Glazing strategy: Larger windows south, smaller north. Add exterior shading sized to the solar altitude.
- Thermal zoning: Place day spaces on the south side. Keep storage and utilities north.
2. Wind and ventilation
Exploit prevailing breezes for cooling and air quality.
- Cross-vent paths: Align openings across the wind corridor. Keep interior doors with high/low vents.
- Stack effect: Add higher exhaust windows or vents to purge hot air.
- Windbreaks: Use trees or fences to slow harsh winter winds without blocking airflow.
3. Topography and drainage
Keep the structure dry and stable.
- Avoid low spots: Site above swales and flood-prone areas.
- Positive fall: Grade away from the perimeter at 5 percent for the first 3 meters.
- Clearance: Maintain at least 150 mm under modular frames for airflow and inspection.
4. Privacy and noise
Orient sensitive rooms away from exposure and traffic.
- Acoustic buffers: Place bathrooms, closets, or storage toward the road side.
- Green screens: Use hedges and berms to filter views and sound.
- Sightlines: Angle windows to frame views and avoid neighbors.
5. Access and utilities
Plan clean logistics from day one.
- Drive and crane access: Ensure turning radii and stable staging for delivery.
- RV-style hookups: Keep clear routes to water, power, and sewer. Label shutoffs.
- Off-grid layout: Position solar for unshaded sun, and place tanks near service walls with drain access.
6. Environmental integration
Preserve what works on site.
- Keep mature trees: Shade, habitat, and roots that stabilize soil.
- Minimize cut and fill: Follow terrain to reduce erosion and cost.
- Permeable surfaces: Use gravel or pavers to keep runoff low.
7. Aesthetic harmony
Place for views and daily rituals.
- Frame moments: Sunrise at the kitchen, sunset from the deck.
- Outdoor rooms: Align doors to patios and shade trees.
- Night glow: Avoid light spill. Shield fixtures and keep skies dark.
Quick checklist
- Long façade faces south
- Cross-vent windows aligned with prevailing wind
- Site graded with positive drainage
- Bedrooms away from road noise
- Clear delivery path and utility access
- Trees preserved and hardscape permeable
- Views framed and light pollution controlled
Jake Thompson
Media Relationship Manager