How to Create a Light & Warm Space in a North-Facing Room
- Barradale Design
- May 20, 2025
- 2 min read
At Barradale Design, we understand the unique challenges that come with designing for the natural light of your home, especially when it comes to north-facing rooms. Often cooler, dimmer, and prone to shadow, these spaces require a thoughtful approach to bring out their full potential. But don’t worry, north-facing doesn’t have to mean cold or gloomy.
With the right design choices, these rooms can feel inviting, warm, and beautifully bright. Here’s how:
Embrace the Light You Have
North-facing rooms receive cool, consistent light throughout the day, without the harsh glare of direct sun. Use this to your advantage by enhancing natural light rather than fighting it.
Use mirrors to bounce light around, opposite windows is best
Opt for sheer curtains or light-filtering blinds to maximise brightness without blocking light
Choose glossy or satin finishes on walls and furniture to subtly reflect light
Warm Up Your Colour Palette
Cool tones can make a north-facing room feel chilly. Instead, bring warmth and depth with earthy neutrals and soft, warm hues:
Think soft terracottas, dusky pinks, warm taupes, ochres, and buttery creams
Avoid stark white, it can look grey and cold in north-facing light
Paint the ceiling the same colour as the walls or a tone lighter to create a cozy cocooning effect
Layer Your Lighting
Artificial light is your best friend in a north-facing space. Instead of relying on one overhead fixture, layer your lighting to create a soft, enveloping glow:
Warm white bulbs (around 2700K) create a warmer glow
Combine ceiling lights, wall sconces, floor lamps, and table lamps to avoid dark corners
Consider adding dimmable lighting for flexibility throughout the day
Go for Textural Warmth
Texture plays a big role in creating a warm atmosphere. Think of a north-facing room as the perfect excuse to add comfort and coziness:
Use natural materials like wool, rattan, linen, and wood
Add soft furnishings: layered rugs, throws, cushions, and upholstered furniture
Choose timber with warm undertones (like oak or walnut) over cooler finishes
Add Life and Greenery
Plants bring freshness and softness to any room, but they’re especially effective in north-facing spaces:
Choose low-light tolerant plants like snake plants, pothos, or ferns
Use warm-toned pots and stands to enhance visual warmth
Thoughtful Art & Decor
Finish with curated touches that reflect your style and enhance warmth:
Artworks with rich, warm tones or organic forms can lift the mood
Use metallic accents (brass, copper) for a warm shimmer
Keep the look layered but uncluttered - too many dark or heavy items can overwhelm a dim space
Final Thoughts
North-facing rooms might seem tricky, but they hold huge potential. With a focus on warmth, texture, and clever lighting, these spaces can feel just as welcoming and bright as their sun-soaked counterparts. At Barradale Design, we love turning so-called “difficult rooms” into some of the most atmospheric, personal spaces in the home.
If you're tackling a north-facing room and need a hand making it shine, get in touch - we’d love to help.
