CEDIA Knowledge Hub is a home for news and announcements from CEDIA, a global community  for homeowners smart home technology.

Discover the future of living with our Smart Home Inspiration Gallery. Explore innovative setups, top tech, and design tips for every room!

Full Smart Home Integration

What is a Smart Home?

A smart home is any living space equipped with devices and systems that can be remotely controlled, whether through voice commands or a smartphone app. The beauty of smart homes is their ability to be customised to fit your lifestyle. For instance, you can create specific scenes for different rooms, adjusting lighting, temperature, and security settings to match your preferences. If you’re curious to learn more about what smart homes are, read our guide, What is a Smart Home?

¿Qué es un hogar inteligente?

Systems used in smart home integration

To understand what a fully integrated smart home can offer, it’s important to know the various systems that can be brought together. By integrating these different systems, you can create a home that’s perfectly suited to your needs. Whether your goal is to enhance your entertainment options, improve energy efficiency, or boost security, a smart home integration system can help you achieve it.

Control Systems for the Entire Home

At the heart of any smart home is a control system that ties everything together. This system acts like the brain of your home, allowing you to monitor and control everything from a single interface—whether it’s a smartphone app, voice commands, or a dedicated control panel. With this control system, you can automate routines, keep track of your energy usage, and manage your home effortlessly.

Lighting

Smart lighting is one of the simplest ways to upgrade your home’s ambiance. Imagine being able to set the perfect mood with just a tap on your phone or by scheduling lights to adjust automatically throughout the day. Integrating lighting with other systems, like temperature control, lets you create a warm, inviting atmosphere no matter the season.

Blinds/Shades

Smart blinds and shades add another layer of comfort and efficiency to your home. By automating their movements, you can maximise natural light during the day and ensure privacy at night. When integrated with your lighting system, these blinds create a seamless blend between natural and artificial light.

Temperature Control

Maintaining the ideal temperature in your home is easier than ever with a smart temperature control system. You can set different temperatures for various rooms, ensuring comfort and energy efficiency throughout your home. Plus, when combined with lighting and blinds, your smart temperature system can create a perfectly balanced environment no matter the weather outside.

Security

Security is a top priority for any home, and smart security systems take it to the next level. With features like motion detectors, door and window sensors, and video surveillance, you can keep an eye on your home no matter where you are. Integrated with your control system, these security features give you real-time notifications and peace of mind.

Multi-Room Audio/Visual

A multi-room audio/visual system lets you enjoy your favourite music and videos in any room of your home. Whether you’re hosting a party or just relaxing, you can stream content seamlessly, creating the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. With everything connected to your control system, accessing your entertainment is as easy as it gets.

Home Cinema/Media Rooms

For the ultimate entertainment experience, a smart home cinema or media room is unbeatable. With features like 4K video, surround sound, and smart lighting, you can immerse yourself in movie nights or gaming sessions. And since it’s all integrated with your control system, adjusting the ambiance to fit your mood is just a click away.

How much does smart home integration cost?

The cost of smart home integration can vary widely depending on the level of customization you want. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Lower Cost Integration: If you’re starting small, a basic setup with smart bulbs, a thermostat, and a smart speaker might run you between £300 and £1,000. It’s a great entry point for getting started with smart home technology.
  • Mid-Range Integration: For those looking for more advanced features, such as smart locks, security cameras, and automated blinds, expect to spend between £2,000 and £5,000. This range allows for a more comprehensive system with enhanced capabilities.
  • High-End Luxury Integration: If you’re aiming for the ultimate smart home experience, with custom installations, high-end appliances, and integrated home theatres, costs can easily exceed £10,000. This level of integration offers the highest level of luxury and convenience.

Overall, the cost of smart home integration can vary greatly depending on your needs and preferences. It's important to carefully consider your budget and desired features before embarking on this exciting journey towards a fully integrated home.