Smart home technology is evolving in new construction. Moving beyond standalone gadgets like smart speakers or video doorbells, homeowners are shifting their attention to more meaningful, lifestyle-focused systems that are integrated across the entire home. Fortunately, these technologies are becoming increasingly affordable and accessible. Read onto learn experts’ best practices for installing these smart devices and how they’re benefitting Twin Cities homeowners.
As we’ve shifted to a remote, work-from-home culture in recent years, one of the biggest changes in home technology has been the need for reliable internet access. “There’s more of an emphasis on what we would consider the backbone of the home, which is the network,” explains Eric Link, general manager of In-Focus Systems.
Many people still believe wireless networks are the best solution to connect to the internet, but in reality, Link says every device possible in your home should be wired. Not only does this provide a more stable and faster internet connection but it also takes the stress off the Wi-Fi network.
When you have a wired network in place, “you’ve essentially built the highway on which all things can communicate and drive on,” says Alex Lelchuk, founder of Lelch. “It starts to make it possible for you to have a smart doorbell, smart thermostat, and smart shades—because if that highway isn’t there, those things don’t work.”
A strong internet network is especially important for new builds with integrated smart systems, allowing homeowners to run all home devices—from window treatments and lighting to security and appliances—on one platform.
Rather than standalone, disjointed systems, many homeowners want everything to be interconnected with the option to use voice control to interact with their technology, Lelchuk adds.“The ability to speak to everything is pretty important and widely possible with most electronic devices.”
Smart home technology isn’t just a trendy novelty—it features many practical benefits that can make a significant, positive impact on homeowners’ everyday lives. Using a phone app or central hub that acts as the “brain” of the home, homeowners can easily monitor every connected device in their house, allowing them to keep an eye on how their systems are performing and receive alerts about necessary maintenance or repairs (such as when an HVAC unit needs its filter replaced). Homeowners can also set routines, like adjusting the thermostat or turning off all the lights at night, leading to energy savings.
Security is another top priority. Smart security systems enable homeowners to lock doors from anywhere, watch live video feeds from indoor and outdoor cameras, engage alarms, and set lights to turn on at a specific time or when motion is detected. “[Lighting] is a built-in security feature,” Link says. “Nobody’s going to try to break into a well-lit house.”
For many, the most impactful benefit of smart home technology is prolonged health and wellness. From sophisticated filtration systems for better water and air quality to automated lighting solutions that mimic our natural circadian rhythm, these integrated technologies act as a partner in a holistic approach to our health.
Ultimately, Link believes smart technology will pave the way for people to stay in their homes longer. “I think it all plays into aging in place,” he says. “There are so many different things that go into a smart home nowadays. I think it’s all a catalyst for people to be able to stay in their homes longer and feel more secure.”
If you want smart home technology to be part of your new build, involving an expert early in the planning process—ideally, before construction has even started, advises Lelchuk—is key for seamless integration. “The sooner we know what the homeowner wants to accomplish in those spaces, the easier it is for it to be integrated as part of the design, as opposed to, ‘Well, we had to put the TV there and it has to look the way that it looks because we were too far along in the process,’” he says. “The later you think about it, the less options you’re going to have.”
An expert will also be able to guide you on the best smart home technology solutions for your needs and lifestyle. “Through conversations with the homeowners, we listen for cues,” says Link, such as how many kids they have, what their interests are, or if they love entertaining, for example. “So, when we’re building solutions, we can draw back on that.”
“It’s like any house project,” adds Lelchuk. “You’re paying someone for experience. You’re paying somebody to guide you through what they already know works or doesn’t work, so that, ultimately, you have the best experience and highest value of use.”
