SMART
HOMES
All images by Crestron Residential
The ‘internet of things’ is no longer a phrase reserved for some ambiguous future. With automation now a crucial part of everything we do professionally and commercially, it’s about time the residential sector caught up. Welcome to the era of smart homes.
From automating lighting to heating, appliances to air conditioning, TVs, computers, entertainment audio, video systems and security — the possibilities for smart homes are seemingly endless. A smart home provides the ability to wake up in the morning and with a simple ‘good morning’ command, have your blinds open, the lights gradually turn on, the TV switch to the news, Fleetwood Mac blast from your speakers and receive live updates on the weather and your commute. Smart homes have come a long way from being ‘dad’s toy’ and there’s plenty more to come. As early as 1982, the concept of a network of connected smart devices was floated, and by 1999 this was represented by the term ‘internet of things’. Now, this concept is a reality that’s integrated into all aspects of modern life in a more functional way than could ever have been predicted. While we may not have Marty McFly’s hoverboard, smart homes represent a sci-fi-esque future made possible. As well as integration in existing homes, smart home automation systems are becoming a staple for new and off-the-plan luxury residences. Gone are the days where a pile of remotes sit on the corner of the sofa and entire work days are spent worrying
about whether or not you turned the air conditioning off before you left home. Smart homes can provide safety, security, comfort, convenience and energy efficiency at all times, regardless of whether or not anyone is home. The leaders in tech automation throughout the United States, Crestron, have been the go-to guys for celebrity smart homes for as long as smart homes have existed. While originally only utilised by the mega-rich in their multi-million dollar LA mansions, smart home automation is now making its way through the residential sector at a phenomenal pace. Expanding out from the American market, Crestron is now making waves in Australia. These systems are no longer out of reach for middle-income earners, causing a transition from ‘showy’ smart homes, to customised systems that offer a whole spectrum of automation options. Some installations involve simple lighting and audio, while others integrate under-floor heating, full security systems and voice control. Crestron has recently established Brisbane’s largest smart home experience centre at the Digital Residence Space in Albion. After taking a tour of the space (and pressing all the buttons), PropertyMash spoke to the
TAKING A TOUR THROUGH A FULLY-EQUIPPED SMART HOME IS LIKE TAKING A GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE, AND IT’S A FUTURE THAT’S NOT TOO FAR ON THE HORIZON FOR AUSTRALIA. Crestron’s Director of Residential Systems, Trevor Rooney, to find out what’s possible for smart homes in 2019 and in the future. Taking a tour through a fully-equipped smart home is like taking a glimpse into the future, and it’s a future that’s not too far on the horizon. Trevor predicts that within a few years, automation will be standard for all new residences. “There’s going to be a time when the trigger is pulled, and smart homes just become the standard,” said Trevor. “I see it happening within the next three to five years, where even semi-rural house and land packages will be sold with automation,” he said.
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