In a wellness-conscious world where personal expression and emotional well-being take centre stage, the rise of ‘Dopamine Décor’ is becoming an increasingly popular request in the world of luxury interior design, where spaces are being transformed to reflect this.

But what does it mean?

International interior designer, Mark Rielly of ARRCC, who has designed multiple celebrity homes around the world, says: “Drawing inspiration from colour psychology and our desire for attachment and connection, Dopamine Décor is about curating interiors that make us feel good by stimulating the ‘happy’ hormone in our brains, with spaces that reflect warmth and personality.”

This feel-good trend and movement embraces bold colours, playful patterns, and expressive elements that spark spaces that are as uplifting and emotive as they are stylish.

Whether through eye-catching statement pieces, dynamic art installations, or unexpected colour combinations, here are a few tips to embrace your individuality and optimism through dopamine décor from a celebrity interior designer.

Colour as a mood booster

Colour plays a pivotal role in our mood and emotions, making it an essential tool in creating feel-good interiors.

‘’There’s a reason you have a connection to a colour like calming turquoise,’’ says Rielly.

Bright, saturated hues are being embraced to energise spaces; red hues for dining rooms, bold orange splashes for living rooms and vibrant yellow accents for kitchens.

In contrast, softer pastels bring a sense of tranquillity and calmness – cooler blues and violets for bedrooms, and purple for creative spaces.

“Examples of how these colour palettes can be incorporated in a design is through expressive and bold wallpapers and mixing patterned and textured fabric in bold combinations. For more understated spaces, incorporating colour accents in art, throw pillows, and rugs can add a personal touch to an interior.’’

Functional art

What is functional art?

“Pieces of furniture, abstract lighting, sculptured elements and crafted accessories that are artsy but still functional and serve a purpose the interior space”, says Rielly.

Think sculptural furniture, swirly lamps and abstract ceramics.

Mixing maximalism with meaning

Unlike fleeting trends, Dopamine Décor encourages homeowners and designers to break free from conventional norms through a thoughtful layering of elements that reflect personal stories and cultural influences.

This design philosophy blends maximalism with meaning, incorporating cherished keepsakes, eclectic furniture, and bold accents to create spaces that feel authentic and dynamic.

Building a fluid space through patterns

Pattern also contributes to our emotions.

“This includes choosing alternative, and geometric designs through uniquely patterned furnishings for spaces,” the interior designer says.

Pattern emulates a sense of movement and gives each room a unique personality, allowing a house to become a transitional journey.

At its core, Dopamine Décor focusses on the emotional impact of design choices.

It’s about crafting spaces that stimulate happiness – whether through a splash of sunny yellow, a functional art piece, or tactile patterns that invite interaction.

This design approach moves beyond just aesthetics, fostering spaces that enhance well-being and create a sense of belonging.