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If you’ve ever stood in a north-facing room wondering why it feels a little chilly, even when the thermostat says otherwise, you’re not imagining it. Northern light tends to be cooler and more diffused, which can leave rooms feeling gray, flat, or even sterile if the paint color isn’t working with the natural light.

I recently shared a post about the best paint colors for low-light rooms, and today I want to zoom in even further and talk specifically about north-facing spaces. These rooms need a little extra warmth to counteract the blue undertones of the light that filters in throughout the day. Whether it’s a bedroom, living room, or home office, the right paint color can make all the difference in how cozy and inviting your space feels.

Here are my top go-to paint colors that instantly warm up a north-facing room:

1. Benjamin Moore Manchester Tan

This soft, creamy neutral has a subtle yellow-green undertone that beautifully offsets cool northern light without ever looking too golden or muddy. It’s a timeless choice if you want a warm, lived-in feel without committing to bold color.

Best for: Living rooms, home offices, and any space where you want subtle warmth and versatility.

2. Benjamin Moore Muslin

Muslin is a warm beige that leans ever so slightly peachy, which is exactly what you want in a cool, shadowy space. In northern light, it reads like a gentle hug. Never flat, always soft and comforting.

Best for: Bedrooms or guest rooms where you want a restful and cozy atmosphere.

3. Benjamin Moore Cotton Balls

If you’re set on a white but don’t want anything that reads stark or icy, Cotton Balls is a beautiful choice. It’s a creamy, slightly warm white that still feels crisp. Perfect for brightening up a space without making it feel cold. In northern light, it holds just enough warmth to feel inviting.

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, or any room where you want a clean but cozy canvas.

4. Benjamin Moore Grant Beige

One of my go-to warm neutrals with greige roots, Grant Beige manages to feel both grounded and cozy. Its warm undertone fights off the chill of a north-facing room and brings an earthy balance.

Best for: Open concept areas and hallways that need continuity and warmth. I use this in my son’s small north-facing bedroom, where the color reads like a pair of stone colored khakis.

5. Benjamin Moore Lenox Tan

If your north-facing room is feeling especially stark, don’t be afraid to go a bit richer. Lenox Tan adds depth and drama without going too dark. It’s a sophisticated beige with warmth and presence.

Best for: Formal dining rooms, cozy dens, or layered living rooms with traditional style.

6. Benjamin Moore Dusty Road

This understated light brown has pink undertones that are ideal for counteracting the gray-blue hue of northern exposure. It’s a soft backdrop that brings a whisper of color and a whole lot of coziness.

Best for: Primary bedrooms, dressing areas, a girl’s bedroom or nursery.

7. Benjamin Moore Abingdon Putty

This earthy hue leans into beige and olive tones, making it a perfect companion to warm wood tones and layered textiles. It’s especially lovely in older homes or those with historic charm.

Best for: Reading nooks, entryways, or paneled spaces.

If you’re working with a north-facing room that feels a bit off, the answer may be as simple as a warmer paint color. By leaning into soft beiges, warm whites, and muted earthy tones, you can create a space that feels cozy and inviting all day long, even when the natural light is on the cool side.

When choosing a paint color don’t forget the number one rule, SAMPLE. I love using Samplize for large paint samples that stick to walls, and can be easily moved from wall to wall, and room to room.

And if you haven’t already, be sure to check out this post on the best paint colors for low-light rooms. It’s a great companion guide to this one, especially if your home has a dark spaces with different exposures.

Need help choosing a whole house palette that works with your natural light?
Grab my ready-to-use Whole House Paint Guides. They’re packed with curated colors, sheen tips, and coordinating suggestions to help you design a home that feels warm, cohesive, and effortlessly pulled together.

Warm Up a North-Facing Room: Top Paint Colors That Add Instant Coziness