{
  "id": 18681742,
  "title": "The Simple Decor Changes That Can Make Your Home Feel Calmer and Happier",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/07/the-simple-decor-changes-that-can-make-your-home-feel-calmer-and",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-11-07T09:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/simple-decor-changes-that-make-homes-feel-calmer-and-happier-12655397"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The concept of \"dopamine decor\" has gained traction as people seek ways to optimize their mental and physical well-being through interior design. This philosophy emphasizes how the aesthetic elements of a room, such as colors, textures, and objects, can impact the mood of its occupants. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with positive emotions like pleasure and reward, making it a key factor in creating a comfortable and happy living space.\n\nResearch supports the importance of environment in influencing our feelings. A 2011 study found that viewing beautiful art activates brain regions linked to dopamine release, while a 2019 study demonstrated that people experience greater happiness in visually pleasing surroundings. Interior designer Tracee Murphy, founder of Trade Mark Interiors, explains that dopamine decor is highly personal, as what sparks joy varies from person to person.\n\nDespite popular trends favoring minimalist interiors and neutral tones, Murphy advises that major renovations are not necessary to create a calming atmosphere. Instead, she suggests starting with one question: \"How do I want to feel when I walk into this room?\" From there, small, intentional changes can be made to enhance the space.\n\nKey factors in creating a calming environment include soft, layered lighting, natural materials, and thoughtful furniture placement. Warm, layered lighting creates a sense of warmth and comfort, while natural materials provide a cozy feel. Proper furniture placement ensures the room feels welcoming and easy to navigate.\n\nLisa Quinn, a California-based interior designer, emphasizes the importance of lighting in creating a calming atmosphere. She recommends using warm, layered lighting with dimmers, utilizing multiple light sources at different heights, and incorporating a variety of light colors. Additional sensory elements, such as soft music and soothing scents, can also contribute to a more relaxed environment.\n\nClutter can disrupt the sense of tranquility in a room, so clearing excess items from visible surfaces can make a significant difference. Designers like Mariette Barsoum recommend maintaining clear surfaces, using consistent backgrounds, and allowing space between displayed items to prevent visual clutter. At its core, dopamine decor is about creating a space that makes people feel good, regardless of personal preferences or aesthetics.",
  "summary": "Top designers break down the interiors trend and how to put it into practice.",
  "key_points": [
    "Dopamine decor influences mood through aesthetic elements like colors and textures.",
    "Soft, layered lighting and natural materials create a calming atmosphere.",
    "Clear surfaces and thoughtful furniture placement prevent visual clutter."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}