STEP BY STEP: Creating a tech-savvy home
Step by Step is the blog of Kate Kerin Interiors. In addition to following some of my clients’ projects, I examine some of the latest issues of interest in the world of interior design.
Keen readers of this blog and those who know me well will be aware that I am not the most tech-savvy interior designer in Sydney. Among my friends, I’m rarely an “early adopter” when it comes to the latest mobile phone, tablet or computer and I frequently call upon my young adult children to fix various glitches for me. But my mother thinks I’m super clever when I assist her with minor email issues – so I guess tech-ability is all relative!
The older we get, the more complicated technology can seem and while some older people are extremely interested in the latest developments and purchase every gadget the moment it hits the shelves, others may struggle. And yet, technology can be a huge help when it comes to our homes – with the right devices and clever automation, we can save time and money as well as adding value to our home. The introduction of smart technology into living spaces offers many benefits, but may be met with hesitancy. In this blog post we will explore the advantages of automated homes and address potential concerns as well as delving into some of the available options here in Australia.
First, let’s examine what “automated” really means. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, configuring automation means setting up rules by which all the connected devices in your home will operate, without you having to interact with them[1]. This might include blinds that rise and lower according to the time, temperature or placement of the sun – without you having to lift a finger. It could be lights that turn on, off or dim according to similar schedules, a coffee machine that brews your morning cup in readiness for the day, a music system that can be controlled by your voice alone, security alarms and observation systems that are triggered and controlled remotely, air conditioning that senses what you need and when – the options are many and are growing all the time.
Most of these things may seem like luxuries that we have lived without for generations, so why bother? Well, in a society where technology often goes unnoticed and we start to take for granted things we once marvelled at, it will soon become an expectation of buyers that our homes offer some 21st century tools. Remember when we didn’t all carry around powerful computers in our pockets, now known as “mobile phones”? The list below demonstrates the value of automation, particularly for older people (although actually the benefits are relevant to us all).
Enhanced Safety and Security: Smart home technology provides a range of safety features that can be especially beneficial for older people. Automated security systems, smart locks and surveillance cameras allow for remote monitoring and control, offering peace of mind.
Improved Accessibility: Smart homes are designed with accessibility in mind. Automated lighting, thermostats and door controls can be easily managed through voice commands or smartphone apps, reducing the physical strain on older people and making their living spaces more user-friendly.
Health Monitoring: Smart devices can be integrated to monitor health parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure and sleep patterns. This data can be shared with healthcare professionals, enabling early intervention and proactive healthcare management.
Energy Efficiency: Automated systems can optimise energy consumption by regulating heating, cooling and lighting based on occupancy and preferences. This not only reduces utility bills but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Convenience: Smart appliances in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry can streamline daily tasks. Technology makes life more convenient for us all, regardless of our age.
Although smart appliances can sometimes be more expensive to purchase than non-automated versions, there are some real advantages to making the investment next time you need to buy new whitegoods. And as is usually the case, smart features are starting to become the norm rather than an added extra that increases the cost. In the kitchen, refrigerators can keep track of what’s inside and when it’s due to expire or is close to running out (not to mention displaying all your favourite family photos on an ever-changing screen). Ovens can be monitored remotely and controlled through your smartphone – no more burnt or undercooked meals! Dishwashers use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimize cleaning and energy consumption and alert you to the status of the cycle and whether the unit needs cleaning or service. And coffee machines can be scheduled to turn on just before you wake up, ready to create a cup customised to your preference.
In the laundry, washing machines can now sense how much detergent and water is needed for each load and which cycle is best for the clothing inside. Smart dryers monitor drying progress and stop when the clothes are dry, saving needless waste of electricity and wear and tear on our clothes.
Even the bathroom can be kitted out with clever appliances such as mirrors that display weather updates, news and health metrics, shower systems that adjust the water temperature and pressure through voice commands (a safety feature as well as a clever trick) and toilets that provide seat warming and automatic flushing.
Appliances today are almost smarter than we are!
Home automation is easy to set up when building a new home, but what about retro-fitting? How do we get the benefits of an automated system in our existing homes without breaking the bank and without the headaches of setting it up for ourselves?
The good news is that older homes, including apartments, can be retrofitted with smart automated systems. Retrofitting may include upgrading electrical systems, installing smart home hubs and integrating compatible devices. A professional installer can provide insights into the specific requirements of the home and the most effective retrofitting options.
Tech Hesitancy
While the benefits of smart automated homes are evident, some people, particularly seniors, may feel hesitant or overwhelmed by the idea of embracing technology. Confidence can be boosted in the following ways:
Education and Training: A good interior designer will provide educational resources and training sessions to familiarise older individuals with the technology. Many community centres and technology support services also offer workshops tailored for seniors. Luxury seniors’ resorts often have an in-house tech guru who can offer support and training.
Gradual Integration: It generally works well to start with simple and familiar devices, such as smart thermostats or automated lighting. Gradually introducing these technologies and then building upon them can help seniors become more comfortable with the idea of a smart home. Older people are often already familiar with using their smart phones, tablets and computers - an integrated home system relies on these tools and is a “next step” in tech sophistication.
Personalised Support: The support of family members, friends or caregivers who can guide older individuals through the process of using smart devices is very helpful. This hands-on approach can make the transition smoother.
Right, I hear you ask… where can I get some of this stuff?
Smart Home Options in Australia
Australia boasts a growing market for smart home solutions, with various options available to suit different preferences and budgets. Installation costs may vary depending on the complexity of the system and the number of devices involved. Some prominent brands offering smart home solutions in Australia include Google Nest, Amazon Echo, and the Apple Home app. These are all available through major retailers, and you can compare prices with a simple online search.
Google Nest provides a range of smart devices, including thermostats, cameras, and speakers. These devices seamlessly integrate with each other, creating a cohesive smart home ecosystem.
Amazon Echo devices, powered by the Alexa voice assistant, offer a wide range of smart home functionalities. From controlling lights to playing music, Echo devices provide a user-friendly interface.
Apple Home app ensures seamless integration between Apple devices and a variety of smart accessories. While Apple products can be on the higher end of the price spectrum, the ease of use and integration may justify the cost.
As the smart home landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to remain mindful of ethical considerations and possible issues that can arise. Privacy concerns, data security and the potential for misuse of personal information are among the primary issues that all users should consider. It is crucial for users to be aware of the data collection practices of smart devices and to choose reputable brands that prioritise user privacy.
In terms of installation, while I absolutely do not claim to be in any way qualified to do this myself, one of the services that Kate Kerin Interiors offers is coordinating the installation of retro-fitted smart devices into your home or incorporating them into your new build. Based on Sydney’s North Shore, we work with clients all over Sydney, particularly downsizers. After an in-depth discussion of your needs, I can assist in the selection of your products and installer, and oversee the process to ensure smooth delivery and support while you get used to your new, smart home. Or if you prefer to DIY, Optus has a terrific service called the O Team, which will both supply and install some of the standard smart features talked about in this blog.
Smart automated homes offer a plethora of benefits for older Australians, ranging from enhanced safety and accessibility to improved convenience in daily living. While the adoption of technology may initially pose challenges, addressing technological hesitancy and gradually introducing smart devices can make the transition smoother. With a variety of smart home options available in Australia, consumers can tailor their setups to meet their specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, the integration of smart technology has the potential to revolutionise the way all Australians experience and enjoy their homes.
[1] Biggs, Tim “The House of the Future Almost Within Reach As Tech Gets Smarter”, Sydney Morning Herald, 2 Sept 2023, https://www.smh.com.au/technology/the-house-of-the-future-almost-within-reach-as-tech-gets-smarter-20230830-p5e0o3.html
Kate Kerin Interiors specialises in working with residential clients in Sydney, particularly people who are considering downsizing or other major milestone moves. Contact Kate for an initial consultation to talk about your project.
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