Sunshine Matters: Your Guide to Bright Israeli Apartments
If you’re hunting for an apartment in Israel, one of the questions you’ll soon face is: Which way does it face? Sounds simple, but the answer shapes everything—from how much natural light you’ll enjoy, to how warm (or cool) your home feels, to whether you’ll need a fan or a sweater at different times of year. Let’s break it down in a way that helps you picture life in your future apartment.
The Sun’s Dance Across Israel’s Sky
Israel enjoys a sunny Mediterranean climate with summers that can roast and winters that are generally mild but occasionally crisp. The sun rises roughly in the east and sets in the west, but with a little seasonal swing northward in summer and southward in winter. This means sunlight patterns are dynamic—and the apartment you choose will feel very different in July versus January.
South-Facing Apartments: The Sun Lovers’ Dream (and Challenge)
If you want sunshine pouring in all day long, south-facing apartments are your best bet. These homes bask in natural light and warmth, especially in winter when the sun is lower, making your space feel cozy without cranking the heater.
The flip side? Summer afternoons can turn your living room into a mini sauna, especially if you’re on a higher floor with no shade in sight. Think bright and sunny—but be ready to invest in good blinds, shutters, or air conditioning.
North-Facing Apartments: The Cool, Calm Retreat
North-facing units are like the cool cucumber of apartments. They tend to avoid direct sunlight, making them cooler in the blazing summer months. Great if you hate overheating your home or want a naturally shady spot.
But heads up: these apartments often feel dimmer and chillier in winter. If you’re someone who loves a sun-drenched living room, you might find them a little gloomy. On lower floors, shadows from neighboring buildings or trees can make north-facing units feel darker, so check carefully.
East-Facing Apartments: Your Morning Coffee’s Best Friend
Imagine waking up to gentle morning sun filling your kitchen or bedroom—that’s what east-facing apartments offer. These units warm up nicely early in the day, then stay relatively cool as the sun moves west, perfect for those who want bright mornings but prefer cooler afternoons.
Just watch out if you’re on a lower floor; nearby buildings can sometimes block that glorious morning light.
West-Facing Apartments: Golden Hour All Day Long
West-facing apartments soak up the warm afternoon and evening sun. The golden glow makes them perfect for unwinding after a long day or hosting dinner parties with friends while enjoying stunning sunsets.
Of course, that afternoon sun can heat things up quite a bit, especially on higher floors. Good window treatments and cooling systems are essential here to keep your home comfortable.
Floor Level Matters: Top Floors = More Sun, More Heat
Higher floors often enjoy fewer obstructions, which means more sun and better views—but also stronger heat, especially in south and west-facing apartments. If you’re sensitive to heat or want to save on cooling costs, a mid or lower floor might be a better balance.
Lower floors can benefit from shade cast by nearby buildings or trees, making them naturally cooler but sometimes darker. If natural light is a priority, don’t just check the direction—peek out the window to see what’s actually blocking the sun.
Window Placement & Apartment Layout: Let the Light Flow
Apartments with windows on two or more sides capture light throughout the day, creating a bright and airy feel that can lift your mood and reduce the need for artificial lighting.
Open floor plans help sunlight reach deeper into your living spaces, while units with windows facing only a courtyard or narrow alley may feel enclosed or dark—even if they face south!
Bigger windows mean more light, but also more heat in summer (and heat loss in winter). Modern double glazing can help, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Light vs. Dark Apartments: The Feel Factor
Light-filled apartments tend to feel more cheerful, spacious, and welcoming. Natural light is a known mood booster and even impacts health positively.
Dark apartments, especially those in shaded courtyards or with limited exposure, can feel cozy and calm—great for people who prefer a cooler, quieter retreat or want to avoid fading their furniture.
Think about your lifestyle: are you an early riser who loves morning sun? Or do you prefer evenings bathed in golden light? Maybe you want to grow plants that need full sun—or you want to keep your place cool and shaded. There’s no “right” answer—just what works best for you.
Why You Need to See It for Yourself
Compass directions are helpful—but they don’t tell the whole story. Many apartments aren’t perfectly aligned north, south, east, or west; they may face a corner or be partially angled. The surrounding buildings, trees, and street layout can also completely change how light flows into a space.
That’s why it’s always best to visit in person and experience the apartment at different times of day. If the building isn’t finished yet, try visiting a neighboring apartment in the same spot and facing the same way—it’s the closest you can get to feeling what your future home will be like.
Final Thoughts: The Sun Will Show You the Way
In Israel’s bright climate, the direction your apartment faces isn’t just a checkbox on your wishlist—it’s a major factor that shapes how you live, relax, and entertain.
South and west-facing apartments deliver warmth and vibrant light but need smart cooling solutions. North and east-facing ones offer cooler, gentler light and a different kind of calm.
Remember to think about floor level, window size, and your apartment’s layout—because sunlight is about more than direction. It’s about how light dances through your home, touches your walls, and makes you feel every day.
So go ahead—plan your visits around sunrise and sunset, and let the sun guide you to your perfect spot in the Holy Land.
Disclaimer: This article is not data-based but rather based on Ben Levene's personal market experience and opinions. No decisions should be made without thorough due diligence and professional financial advice.
Ben Levene, CEO of CapitIL Real Estate, brings over 15 years of expertise in the Jerusalem real estate market. For inquiries, reach out to him at [email protected].