The block looks like this (north is up)-
http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y395/greeniesbuild/block12_zps865453da.png
and the plan like this-
http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y395/greeniesbuild/finalplan_zps6bf28647.png
Currently I have it so that the garage, living and patio face to the northern side.
We are in central queensland, it's warm for most of the year although we do get some cold nights; the primary objective is keeping the house cool. We have insulation etc. I realise that the patio will be in the full western sun, but believe that with planting/shade sails it will be cool. The builder thinks I should flip to have the bedrooms to the north so the patio is more shaded.
Who is correct?
I think you are correct for Qld. Keep the living areas coolest, and shade the patio...
Ed