By Eric Schwartz
Photo courtesy of Legrand
I get asked a lot when I’m at design-build events why TD doesn’t cover DIY products or more basic smart home products. Or why we don’t cover one-bedroom apartments or more modest homes or buildings. I think in part that’s because we cover performance homes and by their very nature, they are somewhat complex and incorporate cutting edge design and materials.
But, granted, not every home is a performance home and not every home is smart. Since consumers are enamored with tech gadgetry and with new smart home products hitting the market every day, I thought I’d outline a few simple technology tools I think everyone would benefit from having in their home or office.
Keep in mind that smart home technologies have expanded into every corner of modern homes (indoors and out), and there are many applications where the most basic smart technologies can play an impactful role in meeting consumer demand. From short-term vacation rentals to long-term leases, and even production homes, the smart move towards smarter living spaces begins with a few basic products that form a foundation that residents can build on if they want to expand their smart home technology inventory.
Also keep in mind that property owners and contractors walk a fine line as to how much technology to pre-install in a new build. On one hand, homeowners and renters are expecting a foundational technology package and will be disappointed if key features are left out. On the other hand, technologies change rapidly, so understanding how long features will last and the product will stay relevant is the tricky part of getting smart home technology infrastructure nailed down properly from the get-go.
No matter what you decide on, keep in mind the four most important aspects of smart home technology infrastructure and what you should base your integration decisions on:
Easy to install. Bullet-proof. Looks good. Won’t break the bank.
What homeowners and renters are hoping for (expecting) when they move in.
The first non-negotiable technology any smart home requires is lightning-fast wiring. You have to wire for Internet access and Internet speeds are now measured in gigabytes and will continue to accelerate. Make sure you are specifying fiber optics on the inside of the home, not just up to the curb!
Photo courtesy of Cleerline
Cleerline Technology Group, market leaders in fiber optic connectivity solutions for commercial and residential technology applications, recently introduced a web-based B to B configuration tool to streamline the ordering process for prefabricated fiber patch cables of any length or quantity. You simply select the desired fiber optic cable, connector style, cable length, and any available options from easy drop-down menus to obtain a quote and complete the order. All cables are tested to exceed industry standards prior to shipping. This approach simplifies the ordering process, the integration process, and is delivered after thorough testing.
The kitchen is obviously the next place to work some magic, since that’s where a lot of people congregate during mealtimes and events with family and friends. It’s become the hub of the home. And what do people expect? Electricity so they can charge their mobile devices or plug in a hand mixer to whip up the whipped cream! So how about stealthy, easy to install outlets that adhere to code?
Legrand recently released its Kitchen Countertop Outlet, delivering a sleek, safe and code-compliant power solution for modern kitchen islands and peninsulas. Developed in response to 2023 NEC Section 210.52(C)(3) updates, which prohibit outlets on the sides of kitchen islands, this innovative device brings power directly to the surface without compromising design or install efficiency.
Engineered for fast installs, everyday durability, and seamless aesthetics, the Kitchen Countertop Outlet features the smallest surface-mounted profile on the market. It takes up 40 percent less space than traditional pop-up models and includes a simple connection system with UL 498 certification for safety and performance. It delivers high-performance power access for residential spaces, and is ideal for contractors, builders, electricians and designers navigating evolving code standards.
Another must-have is a smart doorbell. Ring Video Doorbells have a built-in camera that allows residents to see a video feed of what’s happening at their front door at any given moment. The doorbell’s sensors can also alert them when motion is detected at the front door, and with the Ring app, you can adjust Motion Zones and their sensitivity to your liking. Installation is a snap, and they look so much better than those cheap, standard analog doorbells that look like they were designed in the 1940s.
How about adding a little more security without breaking the bank? Loaded with smart innovation, Level Bolt embeds itself inside the front door, completely invisible. So, if you love the look of your current locks that are installed or you’re installing new locks, now you can keep them and just make them smarter.
Photo courtesy of Ring
There’s no bulky hardware, exposed motors, or external gadgets. And all you need to install it is a screwdriver. Allow the resident or property owner to control the lock from anywhere with Apple Home via app, voice or automation. (Smart home platform hub required.) Now homeowners or property developers can share access with friends, family or renters and track activity history from the Level app to see who’s come and gone.
Photo courtesy of Level
Another must have device is a smart thermostat which can help homeowners and renters save a considerable chunk of money by reducing their heating and cooling costs while allowing for convenient app and voice controls. ecobee thermostats learn the resident’s schedule to maximize savings without compromising comfort and can unlock lower energy rates and incentives from your local energy provider. The system automatically turns down the temperature when nobody is at home, learns routines and recommends changes to the thermostat schedule for optimal energy savings, and automatically heats or cools the home when electricity is more affordable.
Whatever you choose to integrate into your own home or property development or production home, a few simple, bullet proof, low cost smart home devices will form the basis of what consumers, homeowners and renters expect in today’s modern landscape. Keep it simple.
Photo courtesy of Ecobee
Eric Schwartz is the Co-Founder and a Publisher of Technology Designer Magazine.
