The journal
How to Decorate a North-Facing Room
North-facing rooms often get bad press, with a reputation for being cold, dark and gloomy. While it's true they tend to feel cooler as they don't receive direct sunlight, that doesn't mean they have to be uninviting. With some proven interior design tips and techniques, you can make the room feel warmer, friendlier and more welcoming.
North-facing rooms often get bad press, with a reputation for being cold, dark and gloomy. While it's true they tend to feel cooler as they don't receive direct sunlight, that doesn't mean they have to be uninviting; with some proven interior design tips and techniques, you can make the room feel warmer, friendlier and more welcoming. Here we share expert advice on decorating a north-facing room to create an elegant, ambient, inviting space.
What is a north-facing room?
If you're not sure which rooms in your house face north, south, east or west, simply open the compass app on your phone and check the direction the primary window faces in each room. North-facing spaces don't benefit from direct sunlight, so the natural light is more diffused and they won't warm from the sun.
South-facing rooms get an abundance of warm, natural sunlight throughout the day. West-facing rooms tend to have cooler light during the day and warm light in the evenings. East-facing rooms get warm light through the windows in the morning, then cooler light later in the day.
The best colours to use in a north-facing room
Rather than ruling out colours altogether, it's about selecting the best shade. In a north-facing room, the most compelling wall colours have warm undertones, which harmonise best with the cooler light, so generally avoid shades with blue or grey undertones, as they enhance the coldness. As a result, many opt for white as the best colour, but it's important to choose a warm white rather than a bright one; softer off-whites with a touch of cream are an elegant choice and reflect light too.
As an alternative to white, warm neutrals with yellow, brown, green, pink or red undertones counterbalance the cooler light, spanning taupe, stone, cream and beige, while earthy, muted pastels also complement north-facing rooms, infusing warmth without compromising sophistication. The soft, refined pink of Threadneedle™ No.262 is a comforting bedroom shade, and on the walls, the warm natural Onslow™ No.48 has hints of red ochre that neutralise the cool northern light in this living space.
Light, neutral tones aren't for everybody, though; if you prefer to be bolder, embrace the dark side and create a cocooning effect with rich, deep colours that inject personality, depth and warmth, think warm tones like teal, terracotta or olive green. North-facing living rooms work well as cosy snugs, ideal places to curl up with a good book.
Alternatively, you could paint the walls a veritable colour of sunshine for a happy, playful atmosphere, even in a room without natural light streaming in; Golden Square™ No.131 is a warm yellow that supplies a welcoming glow.
How to warm up a north-facing room
As well as choosing warm-undertoned schemes, other design choices help lift the temperature. Layer with luxurious textures and finishes: the right finish delivers your desired result, so gloss or eggshell in lighter shades bounce light around the room, though gloss will highlight imperfections, while matte darker tones add depth and intimacy if you want it cocooning.
Choose furnishings in uplifting hues: upholstery in plush browns, olive greens or earthy terracotta grounds a room and adds visual warmth. Add soft textural elements: blankets, throws and cushions are tactile and superbly comforting. Position mirrors strategically: place them opposite north-facing windows to reflect the precious natural light and enhance the sense of space. Consider metallic flourishes: gold or brass fixtures and accessories provide light-reflecting opportunities and touches of warmth.
What are some tips for maximising light in a north-facing room?
When natural light is limited, the right layering of artificial light can transform a space into something beautifully atmospheric. Rather than relying on a single ceiling pendant, consider a carefully orchestrated mix of wall lights, table lamps, floor lamps, uplighters and even subtle shelf or picture lights, placed strategically to draw attention to artwork or architectural details, brighten a shadowed corner or create contrast of light and shade. Putting fixtures on dimmers lets you adjust the lighting with ease, shifting the mood seamlessly from day to evening.
Choose the right colour for your north-facing room
The natural light in a north-facing room is softer and more subdued than in other aspects, which can lend a serene quality; carefully considered warm colours, coupled with great lighting, can lift the room's chill and create an eye-catching, welcoming space. Find the right paint colour for your north-facing room and start its transformation.
