Is a north-facing garden good?

Generally, a south-facing garden is considered the most appealing option for a home, as it receives the most sunlight and tends to be warmer than gardens facing other directions.

Still, north-facing gardens do have their advantages. They often don’t require as much maintenance as other options, and are great for designing a garden with a lush, forested vibe, and their shady feel can give your outdoor space a moody edge. It all comes down to personal preference, so if you’re looking for a cool and comfy garden retreat during the summer, a north-facing garden could be perfect for you.

Use lightweight seating that can be moved easily

Since a north-facing garden typically doesn’t get as much sun as a south-facing one, it can be difficult to find the right spot for your seating in the summer. Different parts of your garden will likely catch the sun at different times, so if you’re looking to relax, try using lightweight garden furniture that you can move around easily to chase the sun.

The best garden furniture materials are durable enough to withstand repeated use, but light enough to let you customise your seating layout on the fly. Try moving your garden dining set to the back of your garden in the mornings and evenings, letting you soak up the sun outside of peak times. You can also read our garden seating ideas for more inspiration.

Choose plants that can grow with limited sunlight

South-facing gardens are great for growing plants that demand high levels of sunlight, such as Mediterranean herbs and vegetables, or a colourful array of plants. While a north-facing garden is typically darker, there are plenty of plant choices that thrive in limited sunlight.

Ferns, hydrangeas, fuchsias, hostas, and hellebores all love the shade, so you’ll be able to give your garden a splash of colour, even during shadowy times of the day. A north-facing garden design can benefit from a dense, forest-y feel, so if you’re looking to craft a cosy retreat, try crowding your plants together for a variety of colours and textures.

Brighten up your garden with a light palette

One of the best ways to make the most of your north-facing garden design is to choose brightly coloured accessories, as these will help counter the shady feel by bringing light to your space.

Bright neutrals like off-white, terracotta, and beige are all versatile choices that can be styled into any garden, but if you’re looking to make a bold statement, you could try adding splashes of sage green or streaks of bright blues. Planters, garden furniture, and wall décor can all help bring some personality to your garden, so if your design feels dark, try incorporating some colour through these features.

Opt for gravel or stone paths instead of grass

While north-facing gardens have plenty of pros, one of the most common downsides is that lawn maintenance can be a pain, especially during the winter months. If you’re looking for a hassle-free alternative, try breaking your lawn up into zones with gravel or stone. These are eye-catching options that are easy to care for but still provide a strong surface for your garden furniture, as well as a stylish backdrop for your plants.

Make the most of vertical space in your garden

Climbing plants are ideal for north-facing gardens, as they thrive in the shade and don’t need extensive sunlight. Ivy, climbing roses, and certain hydrangeas can all look beautiful in north-facing designs, adding a decorative flair to the wall of your home or extra density to your garden’s back wall among the rest of your foliage.’

If you’re looking for small patio ideas to complement your north-facing garden, then decorating your house’s walls is an easy way to make the most of limited space. Try adding climbers for a natural focal point, or combine them with outdoor wall décor for a unique look.