Measuring the facing direction of a house – a guide
Published on October 22, 2026
Almost every feng shui analysis starts with one number: the facing direction of the house in degrees. A difference of a few degrees can mean a different mountain and thus a completely different house chart. That is why it pays to measure carefully.
Where is the front?
The facing direction is the side the house “looks” towards: usually the side with the front door, street, large windows or the most light. For apartments the orientation of the building usually counts; if the apartment entrance differs strongly, check both.
How to measure
Stand with your back to the house wall, one to two metres away from the building, and look straight out. Hold the compass level, away from cars, lampposts and metal railings. Measure at three spots and take the average. In the map tool you can check the reading on the satellite image.
Common mistakes
Measuring indoors next to radiators or electrical appliances, an uncalibrated phone, confusing facing and sitting direction, and readings right at the border of two mountains. If the value is less than 1.5 degrees from a border, measure again.
Frequently asked questions
What is the sitting direction?+
The back of the house, exactly opposite the facing direction (plus 180 degrees).
My house has two entrances – which counts?+
Usually the side facing the street or with the most light and activity. If in doubt, calculate both options.
How precisely do I need to measure?+
To about one or two degrees. More important than absolute accuracy is that you are not at a mountain border.