10 DECOR IDEAS FOR A NORTH FACING LIVING ROOM

As we move into Autumn, are you thinking about how best to decorate your north facing living room to make the best of the light?  

Its counter intuitive but painting a dark room in a light colour doesn’t make it feel any lighter especially if the room has a cold light and your chosen paint has a cool or grey undertone. Just accept you have a cold or dark light in the room and choose a warm colour to create a warm and cosy feel. 

Many blue’s or greens aren’t suitable for north facing rooms because they enhance the cold feeling. But a warm, earthy green will create a relaxing feel in the cool light of a dark room. A perfect shade for creating a warm, cosy living room.

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Whites or off whites may look dirty of dingy in your north facing living room and will produce shadows, especially in the corners. It’s better to go for a warm or dark colour especially in a mid tone.

If you prefer to use a lighter colour or need a light neutral to work with your mid tones there are some good warm whites above. 

Natural light plays tricks on paint depending on the orientation of the wall.  Use a tester pot on lining paper and blu-tack to the wall.  Change the position of the sample on each wall as the light changes during the day,  this will give you a good idea of the actual colour.

This is my north facing living and I've placed a large mirror strategically on the chimney breast wall to bounce light around the room and create the illusion of more space. A well-placed mirror can also help bring in reflections of natural light from other areas.

Incorporate textured fabrics and materials in your furniture and decor to add visual interest to the room. This can prevent the space from feeling flat and one-dimensional.

Since natural light is limited, invest in a variety of light sources to create a layered lighting effect. Use floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces to add warmth and depth to the room.  Introduce metallic accents like brass, copper, or gold to reflect light and add a touch of elegance to the room.

While direct sunlight might be scarce, there are many low-light plants that can thrive in north-facing rooms. Adding greenery can bring life and freshness to the space.

Hang large, colorful artwork or create a gallery wall to draw the eye and make the room feel vibrant. Art can be an excellent focal point, distracting from the lack of natural light.

Add an area rug to anchor the space and add some warmth to the floor. Choose a rug in a light color or with subtle patterns to avoid overwhelming the room.

Keep the room clutter-free as a clean and organized space tends to feel more open and inviting.

Use sheer curtains or blinds to allow as much natural light as possible to filter through while still providing privacy. Heavy curtains can make the room feel darker.

Create a cozy reading nook or seating area near a window with soft cushions and throws to maximize the comfort of the available light.

Remember that each space is unique, so feel free to experiment and adapt these ideas to suit your personal style and preferences. Enjoy decorating your north-facing living room!