Thinking about north facing windows for your home? I get it. You want to know how they’ll affect your space before making any decisions.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything about north-facing windows. We’ll cover lighting patterns, temperature impacts, and room placement.
You’ll learn the pros and cons, design tips, and how they compare to other window directions. I’ve helped homeowners figure this out for years, so I know what works.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect and if north-facing windows fit your lifestyle.
What Are North Facing Windows?
North facing windows point toward the northern sky. They get different sunlight than windows facing other directions. This affects how light enters your home all day long.
The sun moves across the southern sky in the Northern Hemisphere. North windows sit away from the sun’s main path. They receive indirect light instead of harsh rays. The sun never crosses the northern part of the sky, so these windows stay in shadow most of the time.
They catch reflected light from the sky and surrounding surfaces. This creates soft, consistent light. No bright spots. No glare. Just steady illumination throughout the day.
How North Facing Windows Affect Natural Light
North facing windows give you steady, gentle light. No harsh beams moving across your floor. No fading furniture from intense sun exposure.
Diffused, even lighting throughout the day
The light from the north windows stays consistent. Morning looks like afternoon. You won’t need to adjust blinds as the sun shifts. This makes planning your space easier.
Artists love this light. Photographers too. It doesn’t change color temperature much. Your white walls stay white all day. Colors look true and balanced.
How seasonal changes impact brightness
Summer brings longer days. Your north windows let in more ambient light during extended daylight hours. But you still won’t get direct sun beaming in.
Winter shortens the days. Your rooms will feel darker earlier. The low sun angle means even less light reaches north-facing windows. You’ll rely more on artificial lighting during cold months.
Spring and fall sit somewhere in between. The changes happen gradually as days lengthen or shorten.
Temperature and Energy Efficiency Considerations
North facing windows impact your heating and cooling costs. They behave differently than windows on other walls.
Heat retention in winter months
North windows lose heat faster in winter. Cold air settles on the glass. Without direct sun to warm things up, these windows can create cool spots in your room.
Good insulation helps. Double or triple-pane glass makes a real difference. Weather stripping around frames stops drafts. Heavy curtains at night keep warmth inside.
You might notice higher heating bills if you have many north-facing windows. Factor this into your budget.
Cooling benefits during warmer seasons
Summer heat? North windows help here. They don’t let in hot afternoon sun. Your air conditioner won’t work as hard. Rooms stay cooler naturally.
This saves money when temperatures rise. You’ll use less energy for cooling. In hot climates, this advantage matters a lot.
The trade-off between winter heat loss and summer cooling gain depends on where you live.
Pros and Cons of North Facing Windows
Every window direction has trade-offs. North-facing windows work great for some people and not for others.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Consistent lighting all day with predictable light levels and no glare during video calls or cooking | Darker rooms that need more artificial light, especially in winter months |
| Less fading of carpets, artwork, and furniture due to significantly decreased UV damage | Higher heating bills without solar heat gain to warm your space |
| Lower cooling costs in summer without baking in afternoon heat | Cooler room temperatures that might feel uncomfortable and chilly |
| Better privacy with curtains open and no direct sun angles into your space | Limited plant options with most varieties needing direct sun instead of shade |
| Seasonal mood impacts from less natural light during winter |
Best Rooms for North Facing Windows
Some rooms work better with north light than others. Place them wisely in your home.
Home offices and studios
North-facing windows make sense here. Your computer screen won’t have glare. Video calls look better without backlight issues.
Artists and crafters appreciate the steady light. Colors stay true. No shifting shadows on your work surface.
The consistent lighting reduces eye strain. You can work comfortably for hours.
Bedrooms and low-glare living spaces
Bedrooms benefit from north windows. Morning sun won’t wake you early. Your room stays darker longer.
Reading nooks work well too. You get enough light without harsh glare on pages. Libraries and study areas follow the same logic.
Spaces where you watch TV or use screens pair nicely with north light. Less reflection means better viewing.
North Facing Windows vs Other Window Directions
Each direction gives you something different. Knowing the options helps you plan better.
Comparison with south facing windows
South-facing windows are opposites. They get full sun most of the day. Rooms stay bright and warm. Great for living spaces and plants.
But that sun creates glare. Furniture fades faster. Summer heat builds up quickly. You’ll spend more on cooling.
South windows work best in cold climates. North windows suit hot regions better.
Differences from east and west facing windows
East windows catch morning sun. Your kitchen brightens early. You wake up naturally. But afternoons can feel dim.
West windows bring afternoon and evening light. Great for sunset views. Terrible for summer heat. The hot afternoon sun makes rooms uncomfortable.
North windows split the difference. No extreme heat or cold from the sun. No dramatic light changes. Just steady, predictable conditions all day.
Design and Decor Tips for North Facing Rooms
Smart design choices make north-facing rooms feel bright and welcoming despite lower light levels.
- Choose light paint colors like white, cream, or pale gray to reflect available light. Warm tones like soft yellows and peachy beiges counter the cool north light and add coziness.
- Use glossy or satin finishes on trim and accent walls instead of flat paint. They reflect more light and make your room feel brighter.
- Place large mirrors across from windows to reflect natural light deeper into your room. Keep furniture low near windows so you don’t block incoming light.
- Layer your artificial lighting with overhead lights, floor lamps, and table lamps. You’ll need this flexibility during darker winter months.
- Use warm-toned bulbs to counter the cool quality of north light. Add task lighting near reading chairs, desks, and kitchen counters where you need it most.
Best Window Types for North Facing Walls
The right window style maximizes your north light. Size and design matter here.
Picture windows for consistent daylight
Large fixed windows let in maximum light. They don’t open but provide great views. The big glass area captures more ambient light.
Picture windows cost less than opening styles. Fewer moving parts mean better insulation. They seal tight against winter cold.
Combine them with smaller opening windows nearby. You get ventilation when needed plus lots of light.
Double-hung and specialty window options
Double-hung windows offer flexibility. Open top, bottom, or both. They control airflow while bringing in light.
Casement windows crank open wide. They catch breezes better than sliders. The full opening helps ventilate north-facing rooms.
Bay or bow windows extend outward. They gather light from multiple angles. This compensates for the northern exposure.
Skylights or solar tubes add overhead light. They bypass the north wall limitation completely. Consider them for dark rooms.
Is a Home With North Facing Windows Right for You?
Your lifestyle and location determine if north windows work for you.
North-facing home offices reduce screen glare. Hot climates benefit from lower cooling costs. Light-sensitive conditions like migraines appreciate the soft light.
But cold climates face higher heating bills and darker winters. If you’re home during the day, you’ll notice the lack of direct sun more.
Mix window directions when possible. Add skylights to supplement light. Use insulated window treatments to reduce heat loss. Consider window size carefully based on your climate and comfort needs.
Conclusion
I’ve lived with north facing windows for years, and I’ve learned to work with them. The steady light took adjustment, but now I appreciate not dealing with glare on my laptop screen. Yes, winter gets darker. But summer stays cooler, and my electric bill thanks me.
Think about your daily routine and climate. North windows might be exactly what you need, or they might not fit your lifestyle. Either way, you now know what to expect.
Got questions about your specific situation? Drop a comment below. I’d love to help you figure out the best window setup for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do north facing windows get any sun?
North facing windows get minimal direct sunlight. They mainly receive soft, reflected light from the sky throughout the day.
Are north facing windows good for bedrooms?
Yes, north facing windows work well in bedrooms. They keep rooms darker in the morning and maintain cooler temperatures for better sleep.
Can I grow plants near north facing windows?
You can grow shade-loving plants like pothos, snake plants, or peace lilies. Most flowering plants and vegetables need more direct sun.
Do north facing windows make rooms cold?
Yes, north facing windows can make rooms feel cooler in winter. Good insulation and heavy curtains help manage the temperature.
Which is better: north or south facing windows?
Neither is better overall. Your climate and room purpose determine the best choice for your specific needs.
