Best paint colours for east-facing rooms
In all my posts about paint choices I start with a little reminder about the key questions you should ask yourself before reaching for those paint cards.
Who is going to use the space and how do they want to feel in the space?
Thinking about who uses a room the most – home-workers, children, grandparents - and how they want to feel in the space – focussed, energised or relaxed for example, are key considerations to ensure the colours you choose create the right mood for how the space is used.
What time of day will the space be most used?
Is it used for breakfast and then everyone leaves the house for the day? Or perhaps it’s the late afternoon sun that draws people into the room?
And finally, what direction does the room face?
East facing rooms
East facing rooms receive the most light in the mornings. This morning light will have a warm, yellow tinge to it but as the day continues the light takes on a cooler, muted edge.
This highlights the importance of thinking about when the room is going to be most used. Choosing a very warm colour for an east facing space that is only going to be used in the morning e.g. a breakfast nook, may result in the colour feeling too intense and the space becoming uncomfortable. However, if you are returning to an east facing sitting room at the end of your work day, warmer colours in the cooler, late afternoon light, will create a cosy, welcoming feel.
Blues & Greens
Pure, saturated blues & greens will work very well in an east-facing space. Light blue hues such as sky blue or pale aqua & soft green shades like sage or mint will complement the morning sunlight. These colours evoke a sense of tranquillity, perfect for starting the day on a calm note. As the day progresses & the natural light cools, these saturated colours will take on a softer tone.
Pale yellows & soft pinks
Pale yellow tones can enhance the warmth of morning light in east-facing rooms without feeling overly ‘hot’. These colours create a cheerful and uplifting vibe, making the room feel sunny and welcoming throughout the day. Soft & mid-tone pinks will reflect the morning light and continue to give a sense of warmth as the natural light cools as the day wears on.
Soft whites & neutrals
Soft, warm whites work well in east-facing rooms because they enhance the natural light without overwhelming the space. Choose neutrals with warm (yellow or red) undertones. These colours create a sense of warmth and brightness, making the room feel inviting and spacious.
Ultimately, the best paint colour for your east-facing room depends on your personal style and preferences. Consider how each colour makes you feel and how it complements the other elements in the room to create a cohesive and harmonious space. By selecting the right paint colours, you can enhance the natural beauty of your east-facing room and create a welcoming environment that uplifts your mood and brightens your day.
I hope this has been helpful, but if you are looking for more advice on the perfect paint colours for your home, check out my colour consultancy service The Colour Edit.