Integrating Smart Devices and Systems in Home Renovations

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Today’s home renovations aren’t just about new paint, countertops, or flooring anymore–more homeowners are embracing smart devices and integrated systems as a vital part of their remodeling plans. Whether you’re updating a single room or doing a whole-house overhaul, the benefits of incorporating smart technology into your plans are dramatic. Here are four of the biggest benefits smart home renovations provide, as well as what incorporating smart devices into each room of your home might look like. 

Why Go Smart? The Benefits of Smart Home Renovations

While not a comprehensive list, homeowners who integrate smart devices and systems into their home enjoy: 

  1. Convenience & Automation: Control lighting, temperature, and appliances with your voice or smartphone, or set them to run automatically based on your schedule.
  2. Energy Efficiency and Savings: Smart thermostats, lighting, and appliances optimize energy use, helping you save on utility bills and reduce your environmental footprint.
  3. Enhanced Security & Safety: Smart locks, cameras, and sensors provide peace of mind with real-time alerts and remote monitoring, so you can make sure your home, pets, property, and loved ones are safe whether you’re at work or out of the country. 
  4. Increased Home Value: With the convenience, efficiency, and security a smart home provides, more tech-savvy buyers are seeking out smart homes, making your smart renovation a sound investment.

Intelligence for Every Room

No matter what part of your home you plan to renovate, there is smart technology that can enhance your plans. Here’s a room-by-room breakdown of how to incorporate smart technology into your renovation plans, so that your next renovation is truly future-ready. 

 

1. Smart Kitchen Upgrades

The kitchen is the heart of the home—and a prime spot for smart innovation.

  • Smart Appliances: Modern refrigerators can track groceries, suggest recipes, and even let you peek inside using your phone. Ovens and dishwashers with Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to preheat, monitor, or control them remotely.
  • Smart Faucets: Touchless faucets reduce germ spread and can monitor water usage, while some even offer voice-activated controls.
  • Smart Lighting: Under-cabinet LED strips and overhead lights can be controlled via app or voice, letting you set the perfect mood for cooking or entertaining.
  • Leak Sensors: Placing smart leak detectors under sinks or near dishwashers can alert you instantly to water issues, preventing costly damage.

Pro Tip: When renovating, ensure outlets and wiring are positioned to accommodate future smart appliances and devices, and consider adding USB-C or other common phone charging ports to outlets as well.

2. Smart Bathroom Innovations

Bathrooms are being transformed into high-tech, spa-like retreats.

  • Smart Showers: Digital showers let you preset water temperature and flow, and some can be started remotely so your shower is ready when you are.
  • Smart Mirrors: These can display the weather, news, or your schedule, and often include built-in lighting and anti-fog features. Some even integrate with voice assistants.
  • Smart Toilets: Features like automatic flushing, heated seats, bidet functions, and even self-cleaning are becoming standard in luxury renovations.
  • Leak & Humidity Sensors: Protect your investment by catching leaks or excess humidity early, helping to prevent mold and water damage.

Pro Tip: Consider heated floors with smart thermostats for ultimate comfort.

3. Smart Bedroom Enhancements

Turn your bedroom into a restful, tech-enabled sanctuary.

  • Smart Lighting: Install dimmable, color-changing bulbs to create a relaxing evening routine or provide a gentle wake-up with lighting that mimics the sunrise.
  • Smart Thermostats: Automatically maintain the perfect sleeping temperature or adjust it remotely from your bed.
  • Automated Blinds/Curtains: Schedule your blinds to open with the sunrise or close for privacy at night—all controlled by app or voice.
  • Voice Assistants: Use a smart speaker to control your bedroom environment, set alarms, play music, or even meditate before bed.

Pro Tip: Use motion sensors for soft, automatic night lights that guide your way without disturbing your sleep.

4. Smart Living Room Solutions

The living room is the hub of family life and entertainment with no shortage of ways to make it smarter.

  • Smart Speakers & Displays: Devices like Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub serve as central command centers for your home, controlling other devices and providing entertainment.
  • Smart Lighting: Set scenes for movie nights, parties, or reading—all with a tap or a voice command.
  • Smart Plugs & Outlets: Automate lamps, fans, or holiday decorations, and monitor energy usage.
  • Security Cameras & Smart Locks: Keep an eye on entry points and grant access to guests or service providers remotely.

Pro Tip: Integrate your TV and audio system with your smart home hub for seamless entertainment control.

5. Whole-Home Smart Systems

For the best experience, tie everything together with a robust, flexible system.

  • Home Automation Hubs: Platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit let you control all your devices from one place and create powerful automation routines.
  • Upgraded Wi-Fi/Networking: A mesh Wi-Fi system ensures strong, reliable connectivity for every device in every room.
  • Energy Management: Use smart meters and connected devices to monitor and optimize your home’s energy consumption.

Pro Tip: Plan your smart home infrastructure during renovations for seamless installation and future expansion.

Ready to Renovate the Smart Way? 

Smart devices and systems are no longer futuristic fantasies—they’re practical, accessible, and increasingly essential in today’s homes. By thoughtfully integrating smart technology into your renovation plans, you’ll enjoy greater comfort, security, and efficiency, while also boosting your home’s value for years to come.

When you’re ready to renovate, contact Utah Home Remodeling Experts for a free consultation and let us help you create the home of your future, today. 

Choosing the Right Kitchen Countertop Material for Your Renovation By W. Hemsath Countertops can drastically change the look of your kitchen, but when planning a kitchen remodel, appearance is only one consideration. The kitchen countertop material you choose will also affect the cost of your kitchen remodel, as well as the durability of your counters and the maintenance they will require. To help you make the right choice during your kitchen renovation, here's an updated look at the top trending countertop materials for 2024, including how much they’ll cost you in money and upkeep, how durable they are, and what other homeowners enjoy most about each one. To make it simple to compare materials, we’ve scored their maintenance and durability in a range of 0-10: 0 being the lowest on maintenance and lowest in durability. 10 is the highest maintenance requirement and the highest in durability. 1. Quartz Cost: $70–$150 per square foot (installed) Low Maintenance: (3/10); no sealing required, though sealing is recommended for easier cleaning and improved resistance to staining; clean with mild soap and water. High Durability: (7/10); non-porous and resistant to scratching and staining, though things like wine can stain if not sealed; heat resistant but only up to 300° F, so trivets are recommended for all hot pans. What Homeowners Like Most: Homeowners love quartz for its uniform appearance and wide range of colors and patterns. Its affordability, durability, and low maintenance make it especially attractive for busy households. 2. Granite Cost: $50–$200 per square foot (installed) Moderate Maintenance: (6/10); requires sealing once a year; clean with mild soap or stone cleaner. High Durability: (9/10); resistant to heat and scratching but may be prone to chipping if heavy objects are dropped. What Homeowners Like Most: Granite’s natural beauty and unique patterns are major selling points. Many homeowners appreciate the high-end look and feel, as well as its resilience under heavy use. All natural beauty that comes from the earth. 3. Marble Cost: $75–$250 per square foot (installed) High Maintenance: (8/10); requires sealing every 3-6 months to prevent staining and etching; clean gently with a pH-neutral cleaner. Moderate Durability: (5/10); prone to scratching, staining, and etching from acids (like lemon juice); heat resistant up to 350° F for short periods of time. What Homeowners Like Most: Marble is beloved for its timeless elegance and luxurious veining. Homeowners who want a high-end, sophisticated look often choose marble despite its higher maintenance needs. 4. Butcher Block Cost: $40–$100 per square foot (installed) Moderate Maintenance: (5/10); requires oiling every 1-3 months to prevent drying, cracking, and water damage; clean with mild soap and water. Moderate Durability: (6/10); prone to scratches and dents but can be sanded down; not heat resistant and subject to burn marks if trivets aren’t used. What Homeowners Like Most: Homeowners love the warmth and natural look and the added functionality that butcher block adds to a kitchen. It’s also one of the more affordable options, making it attractive for budget-conscious renovations. 5. Concrete Cost: $70–$150 per square foot (installed) Moderate Maintenance: (7/10); requires sealing every 1-3 years to prevent stains; clean with a pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaner. Moderate Durability: (7/10); prone to hairline cracks if not properly reinforced; resistant to scratching, staining, and heat if properly sealed; can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. What Homeowners Like Most: Homeowners love concrete for its modern, industrial aesthetic and the ability to customize it with embedded materials or unique shapes. 6. Recycled Materials (e.g., Glass Composite) Cost: $50–$125 per square foot (installed) Low Maintenance: (4/10); sealing may be required; clean with mild soap or regular household cleaners. High Durability: (7/10); resistant to scratches and stains; generally heat-resistant, but care should be taken with very hot items. What Homeowners Like Most: Eco-conscious homeowners appreciate the sustainable nature of recycled countertops. They also love the striking, often colorful appearance that can complement a modern kitchen design. Budgeting for Your Kitchen Countertop As you plan your kitchen remodel, remember that the cost of a kitchen remodel can vary significantly based on the countertop material you select. Additionally, choosing a material that aligns with your desired esthetic, maintenance leve,l and durability needs will help ensure long-term satisfaction. Whether you prefer the low-maintenance durability of quartz or the natural beauty of butcher block, there is a perfect countertop for every kitchen style and budget. For homeowners in Utah, it’s helpful to consult with local experts who understand the climate and can recommend materials that will hold up in dry, high-altitude conditions. Whatever your choice, your kitchen renovation can be a stunning success with the right countertop!

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