If it makes you happy, it can’t be that bad. Many of us embraced this anthem in the ’90s (thanks, Sheryl Crow), and now many homeowners have adopted the credo as their decorating philosophy. It’s known as dopamine décor—vibrant colors, bold accents, playful patterns, lively textures, nostalgia-infused pieces—and it creates a vibe that’s all about joy.
Think of it as the opposite of a plain beige wall. While simplicity is the solution for some, dopamine décor is a showcase for one’s personality and can truly transform a room into a space that lifts one’s mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.
From a design standpoint, it’s not the mishmash you might be picturing with statement pieces clashing with others. When done right, the lively aesthetic is rather pleasing. Take a look at these spaces, each recently featured in NJ HOME, and get inspired by the designers’ use of dopamine décor:
Artwork
Instead of a large-screen television, an abstract heart by artist Jim Dine hangs above the fireplace in this Princeton great room. Holmdel’s Anna Maria Mannarino put the pieces together for the design.
Furniture
With two lush blue velvet sofas and a rich sable-brown, goat hair rug—selected by designer James Yarosh—the living room of this Tinton Falls townhouse truly caters to those who love texture.
Light Fixtures
The sitting room in this South Orange townhouse is already cheery thanks to vibrant colors and furniture, but it’s perhaps the multi-hued light fixture that creates a memorable kaleidoscope.
Pattern and print
Lions, tigers, bears—and zebras too. In this Morristown home, designer Karla Trincanello chose a zebra’s black-and-white striped motif for the entry foyer and vestibule rug as well as the wallpaper along the main staircase.
Tile
Yarosh could’ve used white subway tile for this kitchen backsplash, but instead he selected a colorful tile mosaic that fed the owners’ appetite for color and pattern.
Wallpaper
You’ll feel instant joy when you take a step inside this Lavallette home. Designer Miriam Silver Verga says the lobster-accented orange wallpaper in the entrance lounge invites family and friends to “chill.”
How do you use dopamine décor in your home? Tell us on Instagram @njhomemag.