When planning a garden or buying a house, the direction your garden faces can have a significant impact on how you use and enjoy your outdoor space. An east-facing garden, in particular, can divide opinion. Some people love the morning sunlight it provides, while others find the afternoon shade limiting. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of an east-facing garden, what it means for your home, and how to make the most of it.
What Is the Best Facing Garden for Sun in the UK?
In the UK, the best garden orientation for sun exposure is generally a south-facing garden. South-facing gardens receive the most sunlight throughout the day, making them ideal for sun-lovers, gardeners, and those who want to enjoy long afternoons outdoors. These gardens benefit from full sun exposure, which means they are perfect for growing a wide range of plants and vegetables, as well as creating warm and inviting outdoor living spaces.
West-facing gardens are also highly desirable because they get the afternoon and evening sun, making them great for relaxing in after work or entertaining guests. Meanwhile, north-facing gardens tend to receive less direct sunlight and remain cooler, which can make them more challenging for growing certain plants but beneficial for those who prefer shade.
East-facing gardens sit in the middle of these options, receiving morning sun and afternoon shade. While this may not be ideal for sun-seekers, it can still be a fantastic space with the right planning and plant choices.
What Are the Disadvantages of an East-Facing House?
An east-facing house comes with a few potential drawbacks, primarily due to the direction it faces in relation to the sun. One major disadvantage is that the front of the house will receive the majority of the morning sunlight, but by the afternoon and evening, it will be in the shade. This can make the home feel cooler in the later parts of the day, which might not be ideal for those who prefer warmth throughout their living spaces.
Another issue with an east-facing property is that rooms at the back of the house, which typically include living rooms and gardens, will lose sunlight earlier in the day. This means that if you enjoy sitting in your garden in the late afternoon or evening, you may find it shaded and cooler compared to other garden orientations.
Additionally, east-facing homes may require more heating in the evenings during colder months since they don’t benefit from the retained warmth of afternoon sun. This could lead to slightly higher energy costs, particularly in winter.
Making the Most of an East-Facing Garden
While an east-facing garden has some limitations, there are many ways to maximise its potential. One of the key benefits is the beautiful morning sunlight, which creates a fresh and inviting atmosphere. If you enjoy having breakfast outdoors or gardening in the cooler part of the day, an east-facing garden can be a fantastic choice.
To make the most of the sunlight, position seating areas and patios where they will catch the morning rays. You can also choose plants that thrive in partial shade, such as hydrangeas, ferns, and camellias. These plants will flourish in the morning sun and won’t struggle in the afternoon shade.
If you want to create a warmer and sunnier area in your garden for later in the day, consider adding a small patio or seating area at the far end of the garden, where it may still catch some evening sun. Mirrors, light-coloured paving, and reflective surfaces can also help bounce light around, making the garden feel brighter.
An east-facing garden isn’t necessarily bad—it simply requires a different approach to make the most of its unique qualities. While it may not be the best choice for those who want full sun throughout the day, it offers a peaceful and refreshing space in the morning while keeping cooler in the afternoons. By selecting the right plants, designing seating areas thoughtfully, and using light-reflecting materials, you can transform an east-facing garden into a beautiful and enjoyable space.
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