A north facing backyard is the orientation most Australian buyers want, because the yard and the living areas behind the house get sun all day. The street sits to the south. These plans put the living areas and the yard to the north.

Every plan here has been checked by an architect so the main living areas face north for free winter warmth and natural summer cooling. Set your block width, depth and driveway side to see the plans that fit.

This page lists 1,058 plans, from builders including Coral Homes, Carlisle Homes, Plantation Homes, Kaplan Homes, priced from $228k to $1.0M, from builders rated 2.7 to 5.0 on Google.

Architect reviewed for real Australian blocks

Dudils checks each approved plan for the direction its living areas need to face, the block envelope it fits, and whether the garage or driveway placement supports passive solar design. It is a shortlist for better conversations with your builder, designer or architect.

Read how Dudils reviews plans

Free heating in winter

A living room opening onto a covered alfresco, facing south, flat and grey under an overcast sky — South facing living becomes north facing living as you scroll.Living room and alfresco

The same living room and alfresco facing north, with late sun reaching right through to the kitchen — South facing living becomes north facing living as you scroll.Living room and alfresco

Summer: eaves block sun

Winter: lower angle lets sun in

In winter the low northern sun streams through north facing windows for free heat. In summer a roof overhang blocks the high sun. Good orientation cuts your energy bills with no mechanical systems.

Want the detail? The Australian Government's YourHome guide to orientation is the best free resource on getting it right.

Questions about north facing backyard plans

What makes these north facing backyard plans different?

Dudils lists plans that have been reviewed for north facing living areas, block fit and practical orientation, rather than simply repeating a builder catalogue category.

Does north need to be at the backyard?

No. A good plan can work whether north falls to the backyard, the street or either side, as long as the main living areas and glazing are arranged to collect northern light.

Should I still check this with my builder or designer?

Yes. Dudils helps you shortlist better oriented plans, but final siting, setbacks, window changes and energy compliance should be confirmed with your builder, designer or architect.