Aligning Home’s Aesthetics with Advanced Technology

As home automation becomes more the norm and less the exception, interior designers are discovering the need to bring integrators into the mix early in the planning stages. When technology is left out of the early design conversation, clients may be disappointed to find their beautifully designed home can’t accommodate their desired tech without compromising aesthetics or, even worse, requiring costly retrofits. 

Conversely, designers who seamlessly integrate tech into their projects show clients that they’re forward-thinking and detail-oriented, protecting their own reputations in the process. 

Here, we’ll explore the emerging relationship between interior designers and integrators and how to ensure smart technology elevates, instead of detracts from, the interior design and the vision of the designer.

SEE ALSO: Welcome Luxury Living with Savant Home Automation

Common Problems with Late Tech Integration

Poor planning can ruin a beautiful space when smart technology is considered too late. As integrators, we understand not only how to install these smart home systems, but also how to hide, blend, and complement them within the interior design. 

But, in many cases, that planning needs to occur in the initial stages. 

So, what happens when it doesn’t? 

• Bulky gear disrupts the visual balance

• Wiring and conduit routes require cutting into finished walls

• Control keypads clash with the color scheme or materials

• HVAC, lighting, and AV controls compete for crowded wall space

The Benefits of Early Tech Integration

Early tech integration enables our automation and AV experts at Audiovisionaries to conceal technology within the walls or disguise it according to the homeowner’s preferences. Speakers, touchscreens, keypads, and security cameras align with the home’s aesthetics, instead of taking away from it. With thoughtful planning, smart home technology can even elevate a home’s design. 

Moreover, designers who offer or collaborate on turnkey solutions are seen as more premium, more valuable, and more knowledgeable in the eyes of discerning clients. By prioritizing smart living, they can create a space that is beautiful, functional, and effortless. 

Incorporating Technology into an Interior Design Strategy

When people think of technology, they automatically envision big and bulky. But today’s home automation has been created with luxury homes in mind. To that end, much of it, when integrated early, adds to a home’s beauty. 

Integrators work to incorporate home entertainment, security, lighting, climate control, and automated window coverings into an intuitive system. In-ceiling and in-wall speakers blend into the sleek paint while delivering high-fidelity, crystal-clear audio to every room. Large TV displays disappear using lifts and camouflage. Two-inch recessed lights that mimic natural sunlight and provide soft, warm lighting in the evening become part of the quiet ceiling trend. 

Meanwhile, LED strip lights are incorporated into coves and under cabinets, delivering beautiful and changeable lighting from an unseen source. Press a button, and a home’s environment transforms, readying itself for entertaining friends, relaxing, or watching a movie with the family.   

Elevating a Home’s Design

Smart homes are evolving at a record pace, creating homes that enhance functionality and entertainment with no negative impact on a home’s aesthetics. Our automation and design experts at Audiovisionaries are excited to be a part of this incredible journey. To learn more about the possibilities in today’s home automation, contact Audiovisionaries.