Let the Sunshine In – But From Where?
Skylights are a great way to bring more natural light into your home, improve energy efficiency, and create a more comfortable indoor environment. But the direction your skylight faces – whether it’s north, south, east, or west – plays a big role in how much light and heat comes in.
For Melbourne homeowners, understanding the difference can help you get the most benefit from your skylight, while avoiding issues like glare or overheating.
Understanding Skylight Orientation in Australia
Because we’re in the Southern Hemisphere, the sun passes through the northern part of the sky throughout the day. That means skylights facing north will generally let in more sunlight than those facing other directions. But that doesn’t necessarily mean north is always the best choice.
Each direction has its pros and cons, depending on the room and your goals.
North-Facing Skylights
Best for all-day natural light
Pros:
- Consistent, bright daylight throughout the year
- Great for areas like kitchens and living rooms that benefit from strong natural light
- Can help warm the room in winter by letting in more sun
Cons:
- May cause overheating in summer unless you add blinds, special glass or ventilation
South-Facing Skylights
Best for soft, diffused light
Pros:
- Let in cooler, indirect light
- Good for bedrooms, home offices or studios where you want light without glare
- Help keep rooms cooler in the warmer months
Cons:
- Don’t bring in much heat during winter
- May make rooms feel a bit dim on cloudy days
What About East and West?
While north and south are the most common choices, skylights facing east or west also have their uses.
- East-facing skylights let in morning light, which is great for bathrooms or breakfast areas
- West-facing skylights get strong afternoon sun, which can cause overheating unless managed properly with blinds or tinted glazing
Which Direction is Best for Each Room?
Here’s a quick guide based on common room types:
| Room | Ideal Skylight Direction | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen / Living Room | North | Bright, energising light all day |
| Bedroom | South or East | Softer, more comfortable light |
| Bathroom | East | Morning light and ventilation |
| Home Office | South | Steady light, minimal glare |
Tips for Planning the Right Skylight Setup
Before choosing your skylight, think about:
- What the room is used for
- How much natural light it currently gets
- How often the room heats up in summer or stays cold in winter
- Whether you’ll need blinds, ventilation, or heat protection
It’s also worth looking into smart features like automatic blinds or rain sensors, especially for Melbourne’s unpredictable weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best skylight direction for all-day light in Melbourne?
North-facing skylights work best for all-day light, particularly in winter when the sun is lower in the sky. They’re ideal for kitchens and living spaces.
Will a skylight make my house too hot in summer?
It can, especially if it faces north or west. You can prevent overheating with tinted or low-e glass, internal blinds, or venting options that let hot air out.
Are south-facing skylights too dark in winter?
They don’t bring in much warmth, but they do provide soft, consistent light without glare, which is perfect for workspaces or bedrooms.
What if my roof doesn’t face the right way?
You can still install skylights using angled flashings or tubular options like Solatube that redirect light into the space you want.
Can I change the direction of a skylight after it’s installed?
Not really. The direction depends on your roof pitch and structure. However, you can control the light and heat with blinds, glass upgrades or filters.
Are east or west-facing skylights bad?
Not at all – they just need a bit more thought. East-facing skylights are great in the morning, while west-facing ones might need heat control features.
Does skylight orientation affect my energy bills?
Yes. The right orientation can cut your need for lights and heating, which reduces energy use. A poorly placed skylight can do the opposite.
Need Help Choosing the Right Skylight?
At The Skylight Shop, we’ve helped hundreds of Melbourne homeowners find the right skylight for their space. Whether you’re building, renovating, or just want to brighten up a dark room, we can help you choose the best product and placement to suit your needs.
We supply and install trusted brands like VELUX and Solatube, with options for every room and budget.
👉 Get in touch for a free consultation or site visit.