From millenial grey to millenial sage, like my twenties, these colour trends have died a horrible death. In their place, a new era of colour is quietly taking over interiors: dopamine décor. Named after the neurotransmitter in our brains thought to be linked to happiness, dopamine décor is more than just a buzzword; it’s about creating spaces that make you feel genuinely happy.
Think about it: looking at a blank white wall or a bouquet of stunning flowers, which one will spark joy? Likely the latter.
The same applies to our homes. Imagine entering a room and immediately noticing a pop of color that lifts your mood, a playful candle holder that sparks a smile, or a brightly coloured vase projecting shimmering patterns across the wall. That’s dopamine décor in action.
What is dopamine décor?
At its core, dopamine décor is about emotion-driven design. Where minimalism favors restraint, dopamine décor embraces bold color, whimsical forms, and textures that stimulate joy. Its key elements include:
- Bright, bold colors: Vibrant pinks, oranges, blues, and yellows instantly energise a space.
- Playful shapes: Sculptural or unusual forms, like rounded or organic shapes, add whimsy and movement.
- Texture and pattern: Materials that catch the eye, like mosaic, ceramic, or patterned objects, create depth and visual interest.
- Statement lighting: Lamps or light holders that cast interesting shadows or reflect color bring a room to life.
- Mood-boosting accessories: Any objects that spark happiness — candles, vases, artwork, or small decorative pieces — can make your space feel joyful and personal.
By understanding these elements, you can begin to curate a home that feels alive, personal, and full of energy. But don't worry, this doesn't mean you have to paint each room in your house a different shade of primary colours.
How to incorporate dopamine décor
While I'm no beige magnet, I have to actively force myself to choose colour, as I am naturally drawn to more neutral tones (the inner Millenial battle). And, of course, there's absolutely nothing wrong with choosing muted or calming neutral tones, but why not build in a bit of colour to break it up and draw people's eyes to that moment of joy?
If you're not sure where to start, here's some tips:
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Layer color: Start with one or two statement items — perhaps a bright vase or a funky candle.
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Play with shape and texture: Mix smooth ceramics with textured mosaics or organic, sculptural forms.
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Curate thoughtfully: Avoid clutter. Dopamine décor works best when cheerful elements are balanced against neutral backgrounds (Yay, a moment for the sage).
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Embrace statement pieces: A single stand-out or oversized item or an eye-catching candle can transform an entire room.
Where to find it
For those looking to infuse their home with joy, check out some of my favourite dopamine-inducing items here on briksn:
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Reversible flower vase in blue and green
- Macaroni 2-in-1 candle holder - for tealights and taper candles
- Pink and orange wiggle candles
In the end, dopamine décor is a reminder that our surroundings hold power. They can quiet us or lift us; drain us or delight us. And in a world that often feels heavy, surrounding yourself with colour, texture and light isn’t frivolous — it’s an act of self-care.
Dopamine décor isn’t about matching your cushions to your curtains — it’s about matching your home to your mood. It’s a little bold, a little unpredictable, and sometimes delightfully over the top.
And that’s exactly the point.