Dopamine décor is emerging as an interiors trend that uses colour, texture, and playful detail to lift mood and trigger emotional wellbeing. Named after dopamine, the neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward, it is tipped to define interior design in 2026, with titles such as ELLE Decoration and Architectural Digest echoing the shift. More broadly, it reflects a change of cycle, moving on from minimalism and neutral palettes towards colour and optimism as the emotional design language of the moment.
The hallmark of dopamine décor is a palette of bright, saturated colours, including fuchsia, electric orange, sunny yellow, vibrant blue, mixed and matched with no-holds- barred and even fewer rules. The result is a feast for the eyes with a powerfully positive impact. It’s a highly personal look, inspired entirely by whatever makes you feel happy.
Unlike Pop Art or Neo-pop, which are equally stimulating, dopamine décor carries no recognisable iconography and no critical agenda. It isn’t trying to send a message; It’s designed purely to spark sensations of joy.
Beyond the feel-good colour blends, wellbeing comes from form, pattern, and texture. Geometric, floral, and abstract prints play against tactile surfaces, layered textures, and real depth. The result is uplifting, therapeutic spaces that encourage creativity and optimism.
