Trees can provide shade in the summer if the trees are properly located. Large deciduous trees, close to the east, south, and west sides of a house, provide shade for windows, roof, and walls. In the winter, these trees drop their leaves to allow solar heat gain in the house. Windbreaks on the north side of the house greatly reduce the wind velocity near the house, which reduces heat loss. This is important if the site is in an open, rural area, or on a hilltop.
Evergreens are especially effective as windbreaks.
Before selecting a house or floor plan, carefully analyze present and future space requirements. A house should be only large enough to meet your needs. Generally, the larger the house, the more energy it takes to heat and cool it. Space arrangement, traffic patterns, and family lifestyles must be considered when planning a new house. The shape of a house can also contribute to energy efficiency.