ARRCC: Dopamine decor

In a world where bolder is better and personalisation is key, dopamine decor is becoming the next big thing in design.

All about crafting spaces that stimulate happiness – whether through a splash of sunny yellow, a functional art piece, or tactile patterns that invite interaction, it is characterised by bold colours, playful patterns, and expressive elements that spark spaces that are as uplifting and emotive as they are stylish.

As award-winning interior designer Mark Rielly from Cape Town-based studio ARRCC explains: “Drawing inspiration from colour psychology and our desire for attachment and connection, Dopamine Decor is about curating interiors that make us feel good by stimulating the ‘happy’ hormone in our brains, with spaces that reflect warmth and personality.”

Here, Mark shares a few tips to introduce the trend into the home.

Go for colour

Colour plays a pivotal role in our mood and emotions, making it an essential tool in creating feel-good interiors. 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. On the contrary, 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 are through expressive and bold wallpapers and mixing patterned and textured fabric in bold combinations,” says Mark. “For more understated spaces, incorporating colour accents in art, throw pillows, and rugs can add a personal touch to an interior.’’

Choose 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 in the interior space”, says Mark Rielly. Think sculptural furniture, swirly lamps and abstract ceramics.

Embrace patterns

Pattern also contributes to our emotions. “This includes choosing alternative, and geometric designs through uniquely patterned furnishings for spaces”, says Mark Rielly. Pattern emulates a sense of movement and gives each room a unique personality, allowing a house to become a transitional journey.

Unlike fleeting trends, Dopamine Decor 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.