How to Choose Paint Colours for North Facing Rooms

Recently, I've found myself in a bit of a paint consultation marathon, almost all of which seem to feature a north-facing room. I continue to be amazed by how unrecognisable my tried-and-true favourites from Little Greene and Paint & Paper Library appear in these spaces. We all know that choosing paint colours for a north-facing room can be a bit of a challenge. The cooler, blue-grey undertones of the natural light can deaden all but the warmest tones. But with the right choices, you can turn these cooler spaces into warm, inviting havens. While there are no hard and fast rules—after all, personal taste plays a big role—here are some tips I've picked up along the way that might help you decorate your north-facing room:

Embrace Warm Tones

To counterbalance the cool light in a north-facing room, consider using warm-toned colours like soft yellows, warm beiges, creamy whites, and light terracottas. These shades reflect more light, helping to offset the room's natural coolness. Warm tones can bring a cozy, welcoming feel to a space that might otherwise feel a bit stark.

Opt for Rich, Saturated Colours

Rich, saturated colours can add depth and warmth to a north-facing room, making it feel more inviting. Consider deep, earthy tones like warm taupes, rich greens, or muted reds. These colours create a cozy atmosphere, especially when paired with warm lighting and natural materials. They can make a room feel enveloping, like a warm embrace on a chilly day.

Choose Light-Reflecting Neutrals

If you prefer a more neutral palette, opt for colours that reflect light well. Light-reflecting neutrals like soft greys with warm undertones, warm whites, or light greiges can brighten the space without making it feel too cool. However, it’s wise to avoid stark whites or very cool greys, as they can appear flat or cold in the subdued light, turning your room into something that feels more like a cold gallery than a cozy sitting room.

Consider Mid-Tone Shades

Mid-tone shades are a great choice for north-facing rooms because they provide enough depth to counteract the cool light without overwhelming the space. Soft greens, warm blushes, or muted blues with a hint of grey can create a balanced, serene atmosphere. These shades add warmth while maintaining a sophisticated, understated look—perfect for those who want a room that feels both calm and inviting.

Test Colours in Different Lighting

Testing paint colours in the actual room is essential before making a final decision. Colours can change dramatically depending on their surroundings. It’s not unusual for a colour that looked positively glowing in our well-lit library to appear unrecognisable when the same brush-out hangs sadly on the walls of a north-facing sitting room on a December afternoon. That’s why I always recommend painting large swatches with at least two coats onto lining paper. Move them around the room, observing them at different times of the day. Let the brush-outs surprise you when you enter a room, catching you off guard and allowing you to test your gut reaction. Watch how they change with the light and notice how they make you feel. This will help you avoid choosing a colour that might look too cold or dark once applied, leaving you with a gloomy, joy-sapping space.

Use Accents and Lighting to Add Warmth

If, after all this, you still can’t get past your desire to paint your elegant Georgian sitting room the very (cold) but undeniably elegant Little Greene Pearl, then by all means, go for it! But be sure to add warmth through accents, furnishings, and layered lighting. Consider warm-toned and textured curtains, rugs, and cushions. Use a mix of lighting sources, such as floor lamps, table lamps, and wall lights, to create a warm, layered effect. Opt for bulbs that emit a warm, soft light to complement your colour scheme and enhance the room’s cosiness.

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North-facing rooms may present a challenge, but with a bit of thought and the right approach, they can be transformed into spaces that feel warm, inviting, and full of life. Remember, the key is to embrace the natural light these rooms receive and work with it, rather than against it. Whether you choose warm tones, rich colours, or light-reflecting neutrals, the goal is to create a space that feels like home—a place where you can unwind, relax, and truly enjoy your surroundings.