How an Expert Does It: Unleash Your Inner Maximalist with Dopamine Decor

If you've spent any time roaming TikTok, or social media for that matter, over the last few months, chances are you've run into the cheeriest interior trend yet: Dopamine decor. Like dopamine dressing, this trend revolved around unleashing your personality through bold colors, playful patterns, and just about anything that evokes a happy feeling for you in your home.

However, embracing a new interior decorating trend can seem intimidating, especially for those just dipping their toes into the world of decor. We consulted two experts for advice on small and affordable ways you can adopt the dopamine trend into your spaces, whether you're a newbie or an interior-style savant.

If you're still uncertain if the trend is right for you, hospitality interior designer and StyleNations CEO Daniella Menachemson insists that the aesthetic can work for most people, aside from minimalists or those with sensory sensitivities. "The interior design trend focuses on creating personal space that makes you feel happy without following a blueprint and is all about injecting your home with elements that spark joy and create a sense of well-being," she shares with Better Homes & Gardens.

Before getting started, Eryn Oruncak, a fine artist and founder of the interior design firm Élan Design, suggests "mapping out your home" and "identifying specific spaces" that could use a "burst of happiness." This way, you'll know where to start to make subtle changes and see if you're interested in exploring the aesthetic further.

Interior Designer-Approved Dopamine Decor Picks

• Anthropologie Nalini Pillow, $68, Anthropologie
• Dazongweihan Set of Nine Flower Market Posters, $9 with coupon (was $14), Amazon
• The Sill Stromanthe Triostar Plant, from $48, The Sill
• Autumn Woodland Wall Art, $24, Etsy
• Etta Avenue Euclid Velvet Loveseat, $280 (was $599), Wayfair
• Jonathan Y Anya Mini Table Lamp, $46 (was $90), Amazon
• Terrain Colorful Medallion Drinking Glass, $14, Terrain

Anthropologie Nalini Pillow

Daniella Menachemson stressed that "there is no rulebook when it comes to designing your room," so mixing and matching patterns, like stripes with florals, is a great way to add color and flair. If you're still uncomfortable with the notion, try and stick with a similar color palette or a monochromatic one.

Dazongweihan Set of Nine Flower Market Posters

Since the dopamine decor trend is all about adding "personal touches," Menachemson advised adding bright and vivid artwork and photos that "showcase the things you take pride in" to adorn accent walls. You can even use a mix of different frames if you're feeling adventurous. Bonus points if it's artwork you've made yourself.

The Sill Stromanthe Triostar Plant

Another great way to delicately display color is by "letting nature in," according to Menachemson. "Add a touch of nature to your room by incorporating house plants, which not only purify the air but also add instant vibrancy to your room," she explained. You can also have a lot of fun with a whimsical planter.

Autumn Woodland Wall Art

On the other hand, if you're not exactly a green thumb, Eryn Oruncak recommended incorporating "things that remind you of nature" instead. Opt for a faux plant or "images of plants and flowers, mountains, tree canopies, or the rhythm of flowing water" to give your space some life, minus the upkeep.

Etta Avenue Euclid Velvet Loveseat

While adding character and lively hues to your space, keeping your comfort in mind is essential. "Remember, your room should be pretty and practical," Menachemson warned. "You do not want a sofa that looks pretty but breaks your back every time you try to relax on it," she noted. Rather than switching out your family couch, start small with an accent chair or loveseat first.

Jonathan Y Anya Mini Table Lamp

In lieu of making a slew of changes all at once, Menachemson cautioned not to try and change your entire house at once. "Start with a few key pieces, like a colorful rug or statement lamp, and gradually add more elements as you go," she emphasized. Times like this, it really is all about the fine details.

Terrain Colorful Medallion Drinking Glass

Using vibrant motifs and tones around your home will evoke the dopamine spirit, but Oruncak believes that you should use the trend as an "opportunity to bring your personality into the environment." Perhaps that means "celebrating your culture with a particular textile" or incorporating elements of "soft corduroy that reminds you of a favorite relative." You'll feel better about changing up your space with meaningful modifications and swaps.