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Brilliantly bold colors and patterns, eclectic prints, inviting textures, and a nostalgia-infused, unmissable vibe: This is “dopamine decor” in a nutshell.
Named for the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine decorating—an offshoot of “dopamine dressing” in the fashion world—“brings back memories of a carefree childhood when the bedroom walls had your favorite celebrity posters, playful [signs], eccentric lights, and objects that elicited a deep sense of joy,” explains Saniya Kantawala, an interior designer based in Mumbai. For her, the trend means “going all out.” But don’t mistake its liveliness for aesthetic anarchy: “While it may seem chaotic, it still ties together into an aesthetically pleasing design grammar,” she says.
Given that dopamine decor is all about instilling a sense of warmth and happiness, what it looks like will differ somewhat from house to house. Getting it right will be deeply personal and individualistic for each homeowner. Professional designers should consider how to make a space a reflection of their client’s personality via color, texture, and composition. “From having a specific bespoke, custom-made piece as your living room focal point to crafting something exclusive or handmade for the corner nook, transmitting dopamine via decor is subjective,” says Rahul Mistri, founder and principal designer for Open Atelier Mumbai. “However, one can add a touch of playfulness and adopt an organic approach to the whole exercise.”
Devika Khosla, creative director at The Works Interiors, recommends pairing vintage pieces with bold patterns and bright colors for a feeling of uplift. “Using oranges, pinks, yellows, lime greens, and cobalt blues in generous amounts brightens the space and keeps the joyful vibes alive,” she says.
In a living room, that might mean pops of color in furniture like console tables, credenzas, or end tables. In a space where a neutral sofa is a must, try out some bright upholstery or quirky cushions on a lounge chair for a bit of contrast. Keeping walls painted or wallpapered in pastel hues can help to balance the look. “Consider adding a vibrant touch to your coffee table or media console by incorporating elements such as colorful books, potted plants, and uniquely shaped candles,” says Sarabjit Singh, founder of Villa Ortiga, a multidisciplinary design firm in Delhi. Don’t let any particular narrative rule your selections, he advises: “A midcentury sofa may be placed next to a traditional divan or day bed as long as it is aesthetic and functional.”
In personal spaces like bedrooms or studies, plentiful pattern will enhance visual interest—and offer a healthy dose of whimsy. “Bold geometric designs, floral prints, and abstract patterns catch the eye and create a sense of movement via wallpapers, floor cushions, rugs, throw pillows, and wall treatments,” says Mistri. And in a kitchen, don’t underestimate the value of picking the right appliance finish. “Experiment with vintage appliance collections to bring in the ‘dopamine’ color pops,” says Khosla. “For the walls, a colorful backsplash with mosaic or subway tile is sure to add cheer.”
In today’s world, where rapid trend cycles run in parallel with an environmental crisis, it’s worth noting how a designer can carry out a “dopamine” makeover sans sizable carbon footprint. One easy idea: Offer old pieces a new lease on life by purchasing vintage, recycled, or upcycled designs. (Furniture and art are both solid candidates for this type of sourcing.) It’s always advisable to be thoughtful about purchasing decisions, but with dopamine decorating, where selections are often tied to personal history—a wallpaper pattern that harks back to a happy childhood memory, or a reupholstered chair gifted by a beloved grandmother—furniture and art can have extra staying power.
For the dopamine curious, one question remains: Where to begin? Saanya Sharma, cofounder of the event production company Threes Entertainment, recommends starting with a color scheme that sparks joy. “To create a harmonious ambience, it is crucial to maintain consistency in the color palette,” she says. “This can be done by using diverse shades of the same hue or sticking to a couple of color schemes.” Try using bright colors on smaller walls, and—pro tip—pay close attention to lighting. (In certain spaces, overly bright illumination may harsh the buzz.)
Minnie Bhatt, founder and design director at Minnie Bhatt Design, says that one essential of dopamine decorating is making space for plenty of familiar faces—in frames, that is. Rather than opting for an impersonal piece of art, go for simple snapshots of friends and family: “Getting pictures of loved ones framed can instantly fill your space with priceless memories.”