Can a New Rug Really Make You Feel Better?

In the same way that a bright pink heel can put a spring in your step. Or, a strong red lip can make you feel ready to conquer the world, a vibrantly decorated home can definitely influence your mood. Particularly against a Winter backdrop of seemingly never ending cold days and dark nights! And, the easiest way to achieve this aesthetic is through the dopamine decor trend – a design approach aimed at sparking joy and lifting your spirits through the clever use of colour, texture, and patterns.

Roger Wei, Head of Design & Product Development at Temple & Webster, says the essence of dopamine decor lies in its ability to evoke happiness and positive emotions. Transforming your living space into a sanctuary of joy during the gloomy months. “It’s is all about creating an environment that simply makes you feel good,” he says.

To start, Wei suggests tackling the areas of your home where you spend the most time. While it might be tempting to think this trend requires a complete overhaul with large statement pieces like a sofa, Wei emphasises that even smaller items can make a significant impact.

“Colour plays a huge role in offsetting the visual and physical chill of Winter. Items like a throw rug, set of towels or new candle can make a big difference. Lighting with lamps is also a great way to add warmth and mood to a space,” says Wei. The key is to introduce bold colours that can instantly uplift your mood.

Lucy Sutherland, Director of Insights and Trends at Temple & Webster, adds that experimenting with different textures and shapes is also crucial. “We’ve seen a huge move towards more tactile furniture and decor that makes us feel good. First, we saw a lot of velvet and boucle, and now we’re moving into exaggerated boucle, chenille, and tufted designs. Sofas and chairs are pieces you can really sink into,” she notes.

But dopamine decor isn’t just about furniture. Bringing nature into your home can also boost your mood. “Rearranging the room to make the most of sunshine and introducing plants and greenery can enhance wellness and give you a big hit of dopamine,” Sutherland says.

So, can a rug really make you feel better? Absolutely! By choosing vibrant colours and plush textures, you can transform everyday items into sources of joy. Imagine slipping your heels off after a hard day at work. And, feeling the woolly warmth under your toes. It’s a simple pleasure that can make a significant difference in your day. As you embrace the dopamine decor trend, even the smallest changes can bring a wave of positivity into your home.