Smart updates may require professional assistance

Members of the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association said that many homeowners are redesigning their living spaces for a more contemporary look that accommodates the latest technology.

“It’s all about clean lines and more modern design,” said Stephen McNiel, founder of Creative Property Restoration Inc. “People want clean spaces, sleek furniture and no clutter.”

But that’s just the beginning, he said. His customers also are very interested in the whole gamut of technological options.

“Technology is making home design smarter and giving homeowners more control,” said Kevin Vick, owner of Vick Construction and Remodeling. Afew trends remodelers are seeing are: Safety and security. Cameras and security systems are often at the top of the list for clients.

“Everyone wants cameras inside and outside the house. There are systems available that allow you to check on your house via a smartphone, and if you ever have a break-in, it’s documented,” McNiel said.

Staying connected. Remodelers often are tasked with adding low-voltage wiring and networking capabilities for telephone, intercom, alarm systems, audio, video, data and HVAC.

“People want to go from room to room with their portable devices,” McNiel said. “Many are disconnecting from cable, but want to be able to connect to their iPad and broadcast wirelessly to the TV.”

Entertainment. “People are putting flat screens everywhere, including the kitchen and bath,” McNiel said. “That necessitates outlets up high for the television and ready wireless connections.”

Vick said his clients often want to mount the flat screen above the mantel, which requires behind-the-scenes upgrades to wiring and mounting systems. Another option is to add a media room — or a flex room that could double as an entertainment space — complete with large screens, theater seating and state-of-the-art sound systems.

“Just a touch of a few buttons and everything is set for movie mode,” he said. “Sound bars also are a big trend now.”

Entertaining often extends into the backyard, so technology has to follow suit, McNiel said.

“People want to listen to music in the backyard and have outdoor kitchens with TVs,” he said. “That way they can grill while watching the game.”

Smart homes operating from a smartphone. Almost everything in the home can be linked to a portable device, allowing homeowners control settings from any location.

“Everything can be run through the cloud now,” Vick said. “If it’s electronic, it can be controlled from a smartphone.”

Make the most of a remodel by hiring a qualified contractor. Builders suggest that homeowners spend time planning exactly what they want before any work gets started.

Acomplete remodel, McNiel said, in which even the drywall is removed, makes it easier to install low-voltage wiring.

“If that’s not an option,” he said, “getting the wiring installed where you need it is a huge consideration, and working with a good low-voltage company is essential.”

Vick said homeowners planning renovations should consider the big picture — not just the hardware required.

“Have a design of not only the system, but of how everything is going to be installed,” he said. “Do some research and have a game plan.”

Hiring qualified professionals who stay on top of the trends can be one of the best decisions a homeowner can make, the remodelers said.

“Electronics change so fast. Whatever you buy could be obsolete in a few months, so it’s critical to work with a good contractor who knows the latest and greatest, and who can tailor that to your needs,” McNiel said.