Dopamine Décor: The Trend That Elevates Your Home and Mood
Interior design trends can be so fleeting that they’ll barely see you through your home renovation, going from Scandi minimalism to a mishmash of colours and patterns practically overnight. However, the latest trend capturing the attention of homeowners and design enthusiasts everywhere is “dopamine décor”, and it’s not just about aesthetic appeal.
What is Dopamine Décor?
When our brains release dopamine - the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation - we feel good. Dopamine décor harnesses this concept by designing spaces that stimulate positive emotions, making you feel happier and more content in your home.
It is the antithesis of beige, copy-and-paste minimalism, instead promoting individuality and the idea that filling a home with colours, patterns, textures, and personal touchstones that resonate with the individual living there, sparks joy, invigoration and contentment. Visually, colours are typically bolder, there’s greater use of pattern, spaces are lighter, brighter and feature more sentimentality and personal touches. In some ways, the dopamine décor trend is an anti-trend, throwing out the rule book and focusing on how your home makes you feel.
Achieving Dopamine Décor:
- Embrace Bold Colours: Start by choosing colours that you are personally drawn to, that evoke joy and positivity. Opt for bright and vibrant hues like sunshine yellow, energetic orange, and calming teal. These colours can instantly uplift your mood. However, if too much colour isn’t for you, then it may have an adverse effect. If softer colours overall appeal to you more, then try working uplifting colours and patterns into design accents like tiles, lamps and rugs.
- Personalise Your Space: Individuality is pivotal to the “dopamine décor” trend. Make your home uniquely yours by incorporating things that you love, not things that are popular. Display photographs, artwork, and mementos that hold sentimental value. Surrounding yourself with these reminders of happy moments can significantly enhance your mood and make a space uniquely yours.
- Natural Light Is Key: Maximising natural light is crucial. Choose drapes that allow sunlight to flood your rooms. Natural light not only boosts your mood but also creates a sense of openness.
- Add Indoor Greenery: Houseplants are a key component of this trend – if you like them and caring for them isn’t a chore for you. They not only bring nature indoors but also purify the air. Consider plants like peace lilies, snake plants, and succulents to create a fresh and intriguing environment.
- Incorporate Art and Inspiration: Hang artwork that resonates with you and evokes positive emotions. Art can be a powerful tool for self-expression and a source of daily inspiration.
- Create Cosy Nooks: Design cosy reading corners or relaxation spots where you can unwind with a good book or simply enjoy some downtime. Use soft seating, warm lighting, and soothing colours to make these spaces inviting and help you feel calm and content at home.
- Consider Multi-Sensory Design: “Dopamine décor” isn't just about what you see; it also includes what you hear, touch, and even smell. Think about adding soft music, tactile elements, and essential oil diffusers or scented candles with scents like lavender for relaxation or citrus for an invigorating atmosphere.
Incorporating “dopamine décor” into your home is all about creating an environment that immediately radiates positivity and joy. By focusing on colours, patterns light, nature, personalisation, and comfort, you can transform your living spaces into a sanctuary that invigorates, boosts positive energy, and helps you to feel your best. The most important thing to remember is to get thoughtful about what you truly like and what makes you feel happiest in your home.
Looking for a new home to give the dopamine décor treatment? Southern Housing New Homes offers exciting opportunities via Shared Ownership and Open Market Sale in London and the South East. With a range of developments, from traditional family homes in the countryside to contemporary city apartments, there’s something to suit all needs and budgets.