A new year means lots of new trends, be it fashion, furniture or food (think kale and cronuts).

But for this designer, that doesn’t mean just buying into what the en vogue say is hot for the next 12 months. Yes, it’s about being aware of what’s out there, but also thinking about the practical and adding a little of YOU into the mix.

Taking that into account, here is my top 5 trend list for your home in 2015.

1. Scandinavian Minimalism

Work, families, life…we are constantly moving. It’s a crazy world we live in and what could be better than creating your own personal sanctuary? A cheerful, calm space that you can retreat to. Picture candles, warm, fuzzy rugs, maybe some fur. It’s simple, chic and just says home.

The Scandinavians have this down – and who can blame them, our winters can’t compare. So if you’re looking to create a space that brings you peace inside and keeps the chaos outside, it’s something to consider.

TIP: Visit Room and Board for some great pieces inspired from our friends abroad.

2. Custom Features

Very few of us can afford to build a fully custom home to our specifications. I mean, I wish, but not happening. So in this day and age of cookie cutter suburbia, an easy way to make it your own is to add some custom features. Think trim, built-ins, tailored window treatments among other things.

These are all great – and fairly affordable – ways to upgrade and update your home. Custom features can also help you tell a story. From handmade furniture from the local woodworker at your farmers market to a unique vintage store find, adding pieces that aren’t big box can help show your personality and make your home, you.

TIP: Take an afternoon road trip to vintage shops around the area with a partner in crime. We like Orion’s Objects in Hampden.

3. Pale, Muted Tones

I won’t spend much time on color again, but in keeping with our minimalist, Euro vibe, I see lite, refined and calm. One color that I haven’t spent a lot of time with but that seems to be making a surge (and I don’t hate it), is pale pink. Interested in trying this out? Give me a call!

TIP: Check out December’s Pantone Color of the Year blog.

4. Herringbone

Classic. That’s all I really have to say.

Herringbone is a chic, angular, graphic pattern with a whole lot of chic. The last couple of years have been dominated by chevron. This offers some of the same movement, but in a grown up, clean, elegant way.

TIP: Installing wood or tile in a herringbone pattern can be expensive because of the amount of product you need. So why not start with an accent pillow or throw with this lovely little pattern. It’ll keep for years.

5. Indoor Plants

Last but certainly not least is that natural element I can’t do without. Clean, fresh air (see a theme?) is just as important as clean, fresh style. So why not add some life to your home. Succulents, terrariums, cacti – the options are endless.

Rule I live by? Have one live thing in each room. Fish, plant, something other than you and the family. Why? It gives you a reason to go in that room. To see, feel and appreciate every corner of your home. That’s a good thing.

TIP: Beginner horticulturist? Start with a snake plant. They are tall, have some volume and just need a little water once a week.