In the northern hemisphere, it is generally believed that homes facing south are warmer and have more sunshine in winter, and cooler in summer. But here in Cambodia, it is slightly different. 

When choosing a property for living or investment, it's crucial to consider more than just its location and appearance. The direction a house faces can affect how it feels inside, influenced by the weather outside and its orientation.

In the following article, we'll share tips and provide an understanding of selecting the ideal orientation for potential homeowners and renters in Cambodia. 

Understand Climate in Cambodia

To understand why the orientation of a house is significantly influenced by climate, it's essential to familiarise ourselves with Cambodia's climate cycle. Cambodia is situated between 11 and 16 degrees north latitude, a location that is north of the Tropic of Cancer. This positioning grants Cambodia a tropical climate with abundant sunshine yearly. With temperatures generally ranging between 25°C and 35°C, the country enjoys a pleasant atmosphere throughout the year.

The year in Cambodia is mainly split into two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season usually starts in May or June and lasts until October or November, whereas the dry season usually starts in November or December and lasts until April or May of the following year. 

In comparison to countries in the northern hemisphere, where the direction a house faces is crucial for getting sunlight in winter or staying cool in summer. In Cambodia, choosing a house's orientation isn't as important for the same reasons. One should instead focus on how to keep the house cool and well-ventilated due to the constant sun and humidity caused by the rainy and dry season. 

Characteristics to consider when choosing a house 

Natural Light

An east-facing house welcomes the early morning sunlight, offering a bright start to the day without the intense heat of the afternoon sun. In contrast, a west-facing home is exposed to strong sunlight from the afternoon to the evening, which can lead to overheating, particularly in the dry season. A south-facing property, on the other hand, avoids direct sunlight for most of the year, helping to keep the indoor environment cooler and more stable. Similarly, homes facing north in tropical climates benefit from receiving less direct sunlight, which contributes to maintaining cooler indoor temperatures.

Landscape

For instance, in Phnom Penh, the orientation of the property also offers unique landscape views that can be particularly appealing for those looking for a high-altitude perspective i.e. a high-rise condominium. An east-facing apartment provides views of the developing city and riverside. This advantage makes east-facing units highly desirable, often leading to higher property prices. To the west, residents can enjoy views of the Phnom Penh cityscape, with west-facing apartments being generally more affordable. South-facing properties offer a blend of city views and the Bassac River, with prices similar to those of north-facing apartments, which have views of the cityscape along with the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers. 

Ventilation

Cambodia’s hot and humid climate needs a good ventilation key to ensure comfortable living. The design and layout of the house should allow free air circulation, which means air can flow in from one side and flow out from the other, naturally lowering the indoor temperature and reducing moisture.

Heat

As previously mentioned above all-direction homes in Cambodia homes enjoy a fair amount of sunlight all year round, with the west-facing homes enjoying the most among them. This can lead to warmer interiors, especially with large windows or glass doors that enhance this warming effect. It is important to balance comfort with these natural benefits. It is advised that appropriate changes mitigate the warmth, such as installing shades, incorporating greenery, or having multiple openings to ensure your home remains a comfortable haven throughout the day. However, there is also the positive aspect to consider such as the sight of watching the sunset every day.

Last Tip on the “best” orientation in Phnom Penh

The term 'the best' can vary widely from person to person. However, we find that properties with an east-facing orientation in Phnom Penh offer stunning views of the rivers - specifically, the Tonle Bassac, Mekong, and Bassac rivers.

Below, you'll find a selection of properties and projects situated near these rivers:

Credit Photo: La Vista One 

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Credit Photo: Wealth Mansion 

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Credit Photo: Diamond Bay Garden 

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Credit Photo: Morgan EnMaison

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In summary:

• Climate and Orientation: In Cambodia, the choice of a property's orientation is less about seasonal temperature control and more about managing constant sunlight and humidity. This is due to Cambodia's tropical climate, with abundant sunshine, temperatures between 25°C and 35°C, and distinct rainy and dry seasons.
• Natural Light:
• East-facing homes capture early morning sunlight, avoiding the intense afternoon heat.
• West-facing homes receive strong afternoon to evening sunlight, potentially leading to overheating.
• South-facing properties avoid direct sunlight most of the year, keeping indoors cooler.
• North-facing homes receive less direct sunlight, helping maintain cooler indoor temperatures.
• Landscape Views in Phnom Penh:
• East-facing properties offer views of the city and riverside, often commanding higher prices.
• West-facing apartments provide cityscape views and are generally more affordable.
• South-facing properties blend city and Bassac River views, with pricing similar to north-facing apartments that offer views of the cityscape and the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial in Cambodia's hot and humid climate, emphasising designs that allow air to flow freely through the property.
• Heat Management: Despite the benefits of sunlight, managing heat, especially in west-facing homes, is essential. Strategies include installing shades, adding greenery, and making design adjustments to mitigate warmth while enjoying benefits like sunset views.
• Choosing the Best Orientation in Phnom Penh: Preferences vary, but east-facing properties in Phnom Penh are highly sought after for their stunning river views of the Tonle Bassac, Mekong, and Bassac rivers, with a selection of properties and projects available near these waters.

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