The ‘smart home’ future is here

TECHNOLOGY and automation in the home is no longer a luxury – it’s a must have.

Four out of five respondents in Master Builders’ latest Survey of Industry Conditions reported increased interest across the spectrum of buyers.

Master Builders’ Deputy CEO, Paul Bidwell, said times are changing and it has never been more important for builders to keep up with demand.

"People increasingly want their homes to provide comfort, security, energy efficiency and convenience, even when we’re not there," Mr Bidwell explained.

"The survey showed people building new homes are most likely to request smart technology for their home lighting, in creating smart kitchens and ensuring their home security systems are top notch.

"People want a home that is unique to them, not just something off the shelf, and investing in smart technology is a great way to add that personal touch."

What else is trending? Not surprisingly, survey respondents reported kitchen island benches and butler’s pantries remain in high demand, as has been evident already in Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards winning entries. Other respondents reported creating space to accommodate ageing relatives, along with ensuites in all bedrooms and solar power systems and panels, were increasingly high priorities for those building.

Mr Bidwell said another interesting revelation of the survey was bedroom numbers.

"While four-bedroom houses make up the bulk of residential demand (36 per cent), there’s definitely still a market for three-bedroom homes (25 per cent). This will become increasingly important as urban infill on small lots becomes more common."