In case you haven’t yet heard the term “dopamine decor,” let’s talk about it.

While the idea of dopamine decor first gained traction after Covid, recent online search data shows that consumer interest continues to grow at exponential rates. According to the trend detector engine, Exploding Topics, search volume for “dopamine decor” has increased by over 280 percent in the past year.

But what is dopamine decor, and how does this relate to your customers?

Definition of Dopamine Decor 

Although one standard definition does not exist, experts tend to agree on the core components of this trend. Below are a few examples.

Exploding Topics used this definition in a recent weekly newsletter: “Dopamine Decor is an interior design style focused on bringing cheerfulness to the home. This kind of decor is meant to boost levels of the feel-good brain chemical called dopamine. Dopamine decor brings happy colors and textures to the elements of a home.”

Renowned interior Designer, Kimberly Poppe adds, “Dopamine decor intertwines the power of neuroscience with the beauty of interior design to create spaces that don’t just look good — they make you feel good too… The essence of dopamine decor lies in its personalization and individuality for each homeowner.”

And a MarthaStewart.com article puts it this way: “In short, dopamine décor infuses your home with a design aesthetic that makes you feel good. Seen as the antidote to the overabundance of monochromatic gray, beige, and greige interiors, it’s more than just ‘a pop’ of color against a neutral background. It’s taking a mix of colors and textures, art, and décor to an extreme and getting them all to play well together.”

Now that you better understand why consumers are drawn to dopamine decorating, let’s look at how you can tap into this trend and support customers looking for a dopamine boost at home.

Dopamine Decor for Your Store: What to Stock and Why 

Bold and Warm Colors

Whether you sell home furnishings or appliances, color is in. At Las Vegas Market this summer, we saw greens and blues trending in furniture and home decor. And at our March PrimeTime event, appliances in various shades of green caught our eye.

Other popular dopamine-inducing colors include jewel tones, rust and yellow shades, and hues found in nature. Yes, there will always be demand for the basics like beige, browns, grays, and white. Adding more color to your product mix could help you attract new customers or even give existing customers a reason to update an existing piece.

Pay attention to which customers want color and which colors seem to be trending in your area.

Legacy Classic High Point Showroom (April 2025)

Textures, Patterns, and Prints

For furniture retailers, this is especially key when considering fabric selection. As we learned at Las Vegas Market and even High Point in April, consumers are craving softer fabrics — which quite literally fits well with this feel-good trend.

But it’s not only about the feel. Fun prints and patterns can boost moods, evoke a sense of personality, and enhance creativity with the option to mix and match various designs.

Legacy Classic High Point Showroom (April 2025)

High Point (April 2025)

Accent Pieces and Accessories

Dopamine decorating is not limited to large item purchases. Think wall art, light fixtures and lamps, rugs, pillows, bedding, and even kitchen items like utensils, dinnerware, small appliances, and dining room chair upholstery.

Essentially, every room in the house can become a dopamine-boosting sanctuary through intentional and personalized purchases that make your customers feel like their homes are a reflection of themselves.

Streamline Art High Point Showroom (April 2025)

Plants and Florals

For many, nature fuels happiness. Yet, real plants are not always a realistic option indoors. Sourcing high-quality, faux greenery, trees, succulents, and floral arrangements can be a simple and easy-to-maintain option for many shoppers looking to bring the outdoors inside year-round.

D&W Silks High Point Showroom (April 2025)

As you lean into what your customers want — both aesthetically and neurologically — identifying the right assortment of dopamine-friendly products could not only boost your sales, but also your happiness.