This is the 356th most frequent Russian word.
сторону
The word "сторону" in English means "side" or "direction" (accusative case of "сторона").
Here, 'сторону' is used in the accusative case to indicate a direction (towards the house).
Она посмотрела в сторону дома.
She looked in the direction of the house.
In this case, 'сторону' emphasizes movement to a side or avoidance.
Машина свернула в сторону.
The car turned to the side.
Here, 'стороне' (in another sentence, changes case) means allegiance or support.