Walls in Cotton Street™ No.3, Woodwork in Sloane Square™ No.92 

North-facing rooms often get bad press. They have a reputation for being cold, dark and gloomy. Whilst it is true that north-facing rooms tend to feel on the cooler side as they do not receive direct sunlight, that does not mean that they have to be uninviting. By applying some proven interior design tips and techniques, you can make the room feel warmer, friendlier and more welcoming.

Here, we shall share our expert advice on how to decorate a north-facing room, helping you create an elegant, ambent, and inviting space. 

Walls and woodwork in Beata White BH.01 

Walls in Threadneedle™ No.262

What is a north-facing room?

If you are not sure which rooms in your house face north, south, east or west, simply open the compass app on your phone. Check the direction that your primary window faces in each room.

North-facing spaces: do not benefit from direct sunlight so the natural light is more diffused. They will not become warmer from the sun.

South-facing rooms: an abundance of warm, natural sunlight can stream into the space throughout the day.

West-facing rooms: tend to have cooler light during the day and warm light in the evenings.

East-facing rooms: the warm light will stream through windows in the morning and then cooler light at later times of day.

The Best Colours to Use in a North-Facing Room

Rather than ruling out colours as a whole, it is about selecting the best shade. In a north-facing room, the most compelling wall colours are those with warm undertones. They harmonise best with the cooler light. Generally, avoid shades with blue or grey undertones as they enhance the coldness further. As a result, many opt for white as the best paint colour in a north-facing room.

But it is important to choose a warm white rather than a bright white. Softer, off-whites with a touch of cream are an elegant choice and reflect light too. An alternative to white decor, warm neutrals with yellow, brown, green pink or red undertones counterbalance the cooler light.

Warm neutrals span shades such as taupe, stone, cream and beige. Earthy, muted pastels also complement north-facing rooms. They infuse warmth without compromising sophistication. The soft, refined pink of Threadneedle™ No.262 is a comforting shade in a bedroom.

On the walls, the warm natural colour of Onslow™ No.48 has hints of red ochre which neutralise the cool hues of northern light in this living space.

Light, neutral tones are not for everybody. If you prefer to be bolder and braver with your interior design, embrace the dark side and create a cocooning effect with rich, deep colours.

They inject personality, depth and warmth to a room. Think warm tones like teal, terracotta or olive green. North-facing living rooms work well as cosy snugs. These dark rooms are ideal places to curl up with a good book and feel relaxed.

Walls in Onslow™ No.48

Walls in Golden Square™ No.131, Fireplace in Lemon Salts™ No.43

Alternatively, you could paint the walls in a veritable colour of sunshine. It brings a happy, playful atmosphere to a living space - even one devoid of natural light streaming in. Golden Square™ No.131 is a warm yellow tone which supplies a welcoming glow to a north-facing room. 

How to warm up a north facing room

As well as choosing paint colour schemes with warm undertones, there are other interior design choices that will help to lift the temperature in a north-facing room.

• Layer with luxurious textures and finishes: The right paint finish will ensure you achieve your desired result. Gloss or eggshell finishes in lighter shades can bounce light around the room. However, gloss will highlight imperfections. But if you want the room to feel cocooning, matte darker tones add depth and intimacy.
• Choose furnishings in uplifting hues: Upholstery in plush browns, olive greens, or earthy terracotta are grounding and add visual warmth.
• Add soft textural elements: Soft blankets, throws and cushions are both tactile and superbly comforting.
• Position mirrors strategically: Place mirrors opposite north-facing windows to reflect the precious natural light, and enhance the feeling of space.
• Consider metallic flourishes: Opting for gold or brass fixtures and accessories will provide light-reflecting opportunities along with 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 light, consider a carefully orchestrated mix of wall lights, table lamps, floor lamps, uplighters, and even subtle shelf or picture lights.

 Place your lighting strategically to draw attention to artwork or architectural details, brighten a shadowed corner, or create contrast of light and shade. Placing fixtures on dimmers allows you to adjust lighting with ease; shifting the mood seamlessly from day to evening and tailoring the atmosphere to your preferences.

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. That can lend a serene quality to north-facing interiors. Carefully-considered warm colour choices, 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.

Walls in Honest John™ No.58