Ask the Expert – Paul Foulkes

September 2, 2024

Theben Country Manager Paul Foulkes delves into the growing importance of smart home integration, while revealing how Theben’s solutions are enhancing both the lifestyle and value of homes

Can you explain why smart home integration has become a crucial aspect of modern property development?

Homebuyers, self-builders and those managing their new home want more for their money. They’ve had gadgets from online retailers, and they’ve looked at systems that do just one aspect of control (only lights or only heating) and they now know that a fully integrated solution is the most effective route to take.

People are more at ease with technology now, in a passive way. Cars are crammed full of technology and we happily accept this as a way to make us safe and comfortable. This mindset is moving over to our homes. Given that your home will be the largest investment you ever likely to make then it makes sense to make it safe, efficient and comfortable.

If you link a smart home system with good build quality and high levels of insulation you can have a very efficient house. The build quality and insulation reduce energy use and the smart home system will manage effectively what energy is then being used whilst retaining comfort.

What specific smart home features are most in demand by today’s property buyers?

Energy saving has really come to the fore recently, due to rising energy costs. Homeowners are realizing that a smart home solution is far more than just lighting control. They understand that it has to have heating control and blinds as well as curtains. So the fully integrated systems are in demand. It used to be OK to control your hot water tank only on a thermostat, then we realized we could use a timer to save money, now we go even further with time schedules for different days, and flexing it dependent upon who is at home. We never want to run out of hot water or have to wait an hour for it be available (remember those days!) That can all be achieved and you can lower your energy use.

How does Theben’s smart home technology enhance the lifestyle of residents?

Simplicity is the key. Theben offers a full range of devices that will offer the user complete control but with simple to use interfaces. No-one wants a control panel in each room just to switch on a light or move the blinds down. This should be a simple “switch”, maybe a brass toggle switch to match a classic interior design. The Theben actuators in the “back room” balance the light levels, seamlessly dim or colour change lighting as required. They balance the ventilation, the heating and cooling depending upon the time of day, the weather or who is at home. This is done automatically without the homeowner having to think about it.

You have a smart home, but a visitor might not even know.

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