With the Christmas period very much behind us, and for what has become a very wet start to the year for many of us, it can be very easy to slip into the winter Blues. But we’re here today to bring you all a little Za Za joy and inspiration!
A popular trend that is taking hold this year is known as the “Dopamine Décor” design trend, that prioritises creating a sense of happiness and joy through a variety of colours, patterns and nostalgic items. The idea is that your surroundings can spark happiness and give a literal “hit of dopamine” (the brain’s feel-good chemical), by focussing on things that visually and emotionally uplift you within your home.
Try Warming paint colours
One of the easiest ways to achieve this is through colours. Bright, bold and happy colour pallets such as electric blues, sunny yellows or even hot pinks activate the joy sensors in our brains, and imitate the vibrant world around us; just like walking in nature. These can be used on walls, furniture, and accessories to inject energy into a room. Avoid muted tones or darker colours such as cold blues or muddy browns.
Or how about a patterned room?
Patterns are another great way to add joy to your space, whether it’s through wallpaper, furniture or accessories, and are great for injecting a feeling of energy into a room. Think florals, stripes, geometrics, and tactile materials that add visual interest and a lively feel to your space. This can extend to rugs too! Don’t be afraid to experiment in your combinations, and use mixed textures like velvet and suede to create a cozy, maximalist feel.
Maximalist design
The maximalist effect suits the Dopamine Décor style perfectly, with a sense that layering your rooms and turning away from a minimalist style can improve wellbeing and fill a room with personality. This combined with the bright colours and patterns mentioned earlier creates a warm, personal environment where you can feel safe and secure, whilst including meaningful or nostalgic items that tell your story.
Who doesn’t love a retro design?
Items that are personal to you are a must with this style; think retro and nostalgic pieces that bring you joy, artwork that you love and sentimental items that create a relaxing, safe atmosphere. This will help create something that feels uniquely joyful to you. Think of things that evoke a happy memory; there’s no right or wrong, an old photo and frame is a great start – just focus on pieces that bring a cheeky smile to your face. Dopamine Décor moves away from what is technically popular, and towards adding a glow of personality, simply what suits each individual better.
The Za Za Team’s top 5 ‘Dopamine’ favourites:
1- Ketak wood and wicker stool
In a nutshell…
Essentially Dopamine Décor goes against the minimalist approach; nowadays people see their homes as an emotional refuge; a place to relax and find comfort, over something that looks purely stylish. This month, as spring fast approaches, is the perfect time to turn your home into a place that boosts your mood and wellbeing through colour, design and personal nostalgia with pieces that make you smile and feel good. Whether it’s an entire room or just one wall, why not try out this fun trend to uplift your mood?
