Whether a room receives dim indirect northern light or bright lingering southern sunshine, it's how you take advantage of the light that counts. Before choosing a colour scheme, consider the room's light exposure, which can greatly affect colours and the mood. Here's how to shed new light on your decor by putting the transforming powers of natural light to good use.
NORTH
A room with a northern exposure receives neutral indirect light. Artists prefer working in northern light because it creates the fewest shadows and remains fairly constant. Take a cue for your decor from Scandinavian interiors that feature mirrors, silver and crystal, combined with pale walls and furniture painted in greyish whites.
Decor Tricks: Prune trees and other plants near windows to let light in; warm-colour sheers will add a soft glow to neutral light.
Colour Cue: To capitalize on available light, choose warm, pale colours such as pink, coral, yellow or cream.
SOUTH
White walls take on a creamy look when bathed in much-coveted southern sunlight. Offering lingering bright light, southern exposures are great for kitchens, offices and any other room in which you spend a lot of time during the day.
Decor Trick: Blinds or plantation shutters offer protection from the sun, but they can also be opened up to take advantage of sunlight.
Colour Cue: Rooms with a southern exposure will glow with warm sunlight throughout the day, making soft blues and greens a cool and refreshing choice; browns like camel and mocha look warmer because yellow sunlight brings out their underlying red tones; white and off-white tones add a vibrant look to a room.
Decorating & Design
Make the most of natural light in your home.
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