With the days getting shorter and colder, dopamine décor could be just the thing to liven up your living space and lift your mood during the darker months.

So, let’s take a look at this popular design trend and how it can transform a drab and dreary home into something special.

What is dopamine décor all about?

The idea is to introduce pops of bright delight around the home to stimulate feelings of happiness (dopamine is a hormone linked to pleasure).

There are no strict rules, only that you choose furniture and furnishings that bring you joy and reflect your personality.

Prime examples include colour-drenched rooms, quirky patterns and eclectic lighting.

Here are three tips to get you started.

1)    Do a quick audit

Review the items that you love and loathe in your home. Are your most treasured possessions buried under clutter or tucked away in the loft? If so, dust them off and put them on prominent display.

Then, cast a critical eye over what’s left and identify what needs sprucing up or throwing away.

Are the curtains and bed linen looking tired? Is it time to freshen up the paintwork? A few small changes could have a dramatic effect.

2)    Define your style

Spend time looking at interior design magazines to pinpoint the colours, prints and furniture you love most (or search ‘dopamine décor’ on Pinterest).

You could opt to use different shades of the same colour or go for a palette of two or three colours. Unless you’re keen on a maximalist look, start by making small changes – paint the skirting boards a bold colour or add some vibrant prints – and build from there.

And remember to factor in lighting. One of the easiest ways to change the mood in a room is to add warm lighting. But don’t take it too far – or your home will feel like a fast-food restaurant.

3)    Recycle and upcycle

You don’t have to splash out on all new furniture and fittings. Consider giving an old chest of drawers, wardrobe or table a coat of paint in a beautiful colour. You could also dye fabric curtains and cushion covers to give them a new lease of life.

Also, search for reasonably priced vintage furniture for sale online or in local charity shops.

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