From dopamine décor to mood-boosting materials, interiors are getting a feel-good upgrade. Enter the ‘Indoorphins’ trend, an upbeat design movement built around creating happiness in the home. Think colour, texture, light and personality, all working together to fire up those blissful brain chemicals, without ever leaving the house.
It’s not just about a pretty room. It’s about creating a space that genuinely lifts your spirits and supports your wellbeing every single day.
What are indoorphins?
Coined as a clever play on “endorphins” and “indoors,” Indoorphins refer to the emotional high that comes from being in a space that sparks joy. These are homes designed to feel good, not just look good.
The trend taps into sensory design, playful elements and personality-led interiors. It’s about curating spaces that reduce stress, boost mood and encourage movement or mindfulness. From vibrant colour palettes to tactile materials and nostalgic décor, anything that helps elevate the emotional tone of your home falls under the Indoorphins umbrella.
Why has it become popular?
Over the past few years, the concept of home has radically shifted. Homes aren’t just for living; they’re now offices, gyms, yoga studios and safe spaces. It’s no surprise that people are actively seeking ways to feel more energised, calm, or joyful at home.
Social media trends like dopamine dressing have also bled into interiors. Pinterest and TikTok are flooded with room makeovers that use colour, quirky details and bold furniture to inspire happiness. Search terms like “happy home aesthetic” and “colourful interior ideas” have skyrocketed.
There’s also growing awareness around neuroaesthetics; the way design impacts our brain. Studies show that certain colours, shapes and textures can affect mood, focus and even creativity. The Indoorphins trend brings all of this science into a stylish, easy-to-embrace package.
Why jump on board?
Because homes should feel as good as they look.
With Indoorphins, the focus is on creating an uplifting environment tailored to you. It’s not about trends for the sake of trends, it’s about turning your home into a source of comfort, joy and inspiration.
From improving mental health to reducing daily stress, there’s real value in creating spaces that support emotional well-being. And the best part? It’s completely customisable. Whether you love maximalism, Scandi minimalism, or vintage eclecticism, Indoorphins isn’t a one-size-fits-all aesthetic, it’s a feeling.
How to design for indoorphins
Inject Joyful Colour: Bold colours have long been linked to emotion. Sunshine yellow, coral pink, turquoise and cobalt blue can all stimulate the brain and uplift the mood. Don’t be afraid to paint a feature wall, add colourful cushions, or even try a statement sofa.
Use Feel-Good Flooring: The sensation of walking barefoot on soft, warm vinyl flooring? That’s a serotonin moment in itself. Plush rugs, underfloor heating, or natural materials like cork or wood flooring can all elevate the emotional comfort of a room. Consider flooring that feels grounding and warm underfoot, especially in relaxation zones like bedrooms or reading corners.
Add Personal Touches: Photos, travel souvenirs, DIY art—these aren’t just decorative. They’re emotional anchors. Filling your space with things that mean something to you builds connection and sparks nostalgia, which in turn boosts those happy hormones.
Go Big on Texture: Tactile elements are essential. Soft throws, boucle cushions, velvet upholstery and even textured walls (hello limewash and panelling) bring depth and warmth to a space. They also activate the senses, which is a core part of the Indoorphins approach.
Light It Right: Good lighting is a game changer. Make the most of daylight with sheer curtains and mirrors, then layer up with soft, warm-toned lighting in the evenings. String lights, coloured bulbs or even lava lamps can bring in that whimsical, nostalgic vibe that Indoorphins celebrates.
Make Room for Movement and Mindfulness: Create zones that encourage happy habits. A corner with a yoga mat or meditation cushion. A little nook for reading. A sound system in the kitchen for morning dance breaks. When spaces are designed to support joy and calm, you’re more likely to use them for those very things. Even simply rearranging furniture to open up space for better flow can instantly shift the vibe.
Feel-good interiors
The Indoorphins trend is more than just a style, it’s a mindset. It says your home isn’t just a backdrop, it’s a key player in how you feel every day. Whether you go all in with vibrant décor or just tweak a few corners with intentional joy, the goal is the same: to build a home that sparks a little dopamine with every step through the door.
And honestly, in a world that can feel heavy, that’s a trend worth embracing.
Leave a Comment