How to light a north-facing room

North-facing rooms can be challenging spaces to work with, but with simple changes, they can become the most inviting place in your home.

This guide will help you transform a dim, cold, north-facing room into a bright, warm, and welcoming space.

Why are north-facing rooms dark?

North-facing rooms receive significantly less direct sunlight than the rooms with windows facing south.

The UK is in the Northern Hemisphere, which means the sun travels across the southern part of the sky. Consequently, north-facing windows never receive direct sunlight throughout the day.

Instead, these rooms rely on indirect light that bounces off the atmosphere and surrounding buildings.

Indirect light tends to be cooler in tone, with blue and grey undertones, which can make the space feel darker and less inviting.

The lack of direct sunlight also means these rooms don't benefit from the natural warmth and brightness that rays provide, particularly during winter months when daylight hours are already limited.

How to get light into a north-facing house?

Maximising natural light in a north-facing property requires proper planning and thoughtful design choices.

• Keep windows as clear as possible, and avoid heavy curtains or blinds that block precious daylight. Instead, opt for sheer fabrics or top-down blinds that allow light to filter through whilst maintaining privacy.
• Mirrors are your best friend, especially in north-facing spaces. Place large mirrors opposite windows to reflect and amplify whatever natural light enters the room.
• Glass furniture, glossy surfaces, and reflective accessories can also help bounce light around the space, making it feel brighter and more open.

Which colour is best for a north-facing house?

Colour choice is crucial in north-facing rooms. While white may seem an obvious choice for light, pure white can actually look flat and grey in north-facing spaces, as it doesn’t have the natural light to bounce off it. Instead, opt for warm whites with yellow, pink, or cream undertones that will feel softer and more inviting.

Warm neutrals work beautifully. Think soft beiges, warm greys with brown undertones, gentle taupes, and creamy off-whites. These colours absorb the cool blue light and reflect warmth into the space.

Don't be afraid of richer, warmer colours either. Soft terracotta, warm blush pink, gentle ochre, or even deeper shades like sage green or dusty rose can add character and warmth to a space. This can actually make the room feel cosier than stark white alternatives.

For woodwork and trim, opt for warm whites or cream instead of brilliant white, which can appear harsh and cold in north-facing light.

If you’re limited with what decorating you can do in your rental home, apply the same colour principles above in accessories such as cushions or rugs to help brighten and soften a space.

What should you avoid in a north-facing house?

Watch out for design choices that can make north-facing rooms feel even darker. Here’s what you should steer clear of:

• Avoid cool-toned colours like stark whites, icy blues, or cool greys, which will emphasise the room's naturally cold light and make it feel uninviting
• Dark, heavy furniture can absorb light and can make the space feel smaller and gloomier.
• Avoid cluttering the space: Stay clear of too many accessories or dark, heavy decorative items.
• Keep surfaces relatively clear and choose lighter, reflective pieces that bring out the light instead of absorbing it.

How to add warmth to a north-facing room?

Creating warmth in a north-facing room goes beyond just lighting and colour. Texture plays a vital role in making a space feel cosy and inviting.

• Layer soft furnishings: Think cushions, throws, and rugs in warm tones and natural materials such as wool, linen, and cotton.
• Include warm-toned wood furniture: Honey oak, walnut, or pine can add instant warmth. If you have cold-looking flooring, add rugs in warm colours or natural fibres like jute or sisal.
• Bring in warm metallics: Go for brass, copper, or gold in light fixtures, picture frames, and accessories. These reflect light beautifully whilst adding a warm glow to the space.
• Plants can also add life and warmth: Choose varieties that thrive in lower light conditions, such as ferns, snake plants, or pothos.

How to make a north-facing house warmer?

Beyond looking warm, there are practical steps to make north-facing rooms feel warmer. These spaces naturally receive less heat, so they can feel cooler, especially in the winter.

• Use thermal-lined curtains or blinds that can be closed in the evening to retain warmth, but remember to open them fully during the day to maximise light.
• Draught-proof doors and windows can also prevent cold air infiltration. Even small gaps can make a big difference to the room's temperature and comfort level.
• Check with your landlord in case they are considering changes to the insulation or double-glazing. These would improve their EPC rating and can be mutually beneficial.

Finally, you could rethink the room's purpose. North-facing rooms can be great for spaces that don't require bright light, such as bedrooms, studies, or media rooms, where the cooler, more consistent light can actually be an advantage.

If you would like more advice on what to do with your rental property, we offer many guides, tips and tricks on how to make your living space better. Follow the link to know to learn different tips and tricks to help you save whilst renting.