Dopamine Decor
For the uninitiated, dopamine is a neurotransmitter or chemical messenger which when released into the brain induces feelings of happiness.
Dopamine dressing has been much talked about this year, it’s a simple concept really, it involves wearing clothes you love that boost your mood. They tend to be brightly coloured, sometimes involve colour drenching or mixing clashing prints. Well now I am pleased to introduce to you “Dopamine Décor!”
It is really the most joyful interior trend of recent years, forget pristine and intentional curation – this is all about items that spark joy, colour pairings that invigorate you and basically anything that pus a smile upon your face! Throw out your rule book and start embracing your true self ….. BUT ……….
How do I do this I hear you cry, well, here is my guide to dopamine dressing your home
1) Do you love it?
Such a simple question, not one we are always able to truthfully answer. Are you really answering from your heart or are you worrying about what Mrs Jones next door might think? Pick it up and look - don’t overthink it; do you love it? Then its in!
IMAGE 1 - Studio Vero showing that if you love massive ants, you should have them!
2) Embrace colour
Colour is perhaps the most important part of dopamine decor, as it has such sway on our mood.
‘Express your individuality – your personal space should be a reflection of your personality,' says Jodie Hatton, Design Manager at Brintons. 'What you want from your home and how you want to feel when you enter a room, is very important. The warmness, coolness, saturation and intensity of colour, all create different effects. Consider how each room will be inhabited and experienced and most of all have fun with colour!’
IMAGE 3 - Jessica from House That Colour Built has a colour drenched and gorgeous pink and yellow lounge
3) Pops of colour
Not quite ready for colour drenching? Consider starting with smaller pops of colour. This is simply picking out one item such as brightly coloured or patterned cushion or piece one furniture – the effect can be quite stunning
IMAGE 4 - Kitchen designed by Helen Ward of House of Wards
4) Go Geometric
Strong geometrics have been seen in many interiors this year and their popularity shows no sign of disappearing. Arches and curves in particular continue to be popular on walls and furniture. They are a great way to introduce a small amount of colour but you do need a steady hand as they must look perfect, wobbly edges not welcome here!
IMAGE 5 - Richard of House Homo showing one of his many geometric designs
5) Go bold
Maximalism is at the very centre of dopamine dressing and who better to demonstrate than the beautiful Siobhan Murphy of The Interior Curve. Siobhan shot to fame a couple of years ago after taking part in Interior Design Challenge and wowing judges with her bold and beautiful designs. This style involves going all out and is not for the faint hearted but when done well can invoke feelings of harmony and opulence – it really is a style of opposing sides and one of the reasons I love it so
IMAGE 5 - Siobhan Murphy Maximalist Queen!
Have you tried dopamine decor? Where would you start – all in with colour drenching or by dipping your toe in the water with a colour pop, show us on Instagram what you’ve done or send me a dm with any questions you may have
Until next time,
Becky x