We are living in a time of
technological revolution, so make the most of new developments by incorporating cutting-edge elements into your home.
1. Use your smartphone There are apps for just about anything you can think of and now it's even possible to keep tabs on your home when you're away. Turn lights on and off, set the heating and even open and close your curtains at the touch of a screen.
2. Make use of smart glass Incredible as it may seem, there is a glass that can go from transparent to opaque at the flick of a switch. Now you can bring light flooding into your home whilst maintaining your privacy whenever the mood takes you. Currently taking the hotel world by storm with transparent en-suite bathrooms, the practical uses for smart windows are endless.
3. Unwired for sound The wireless revolution, together with digital music, has made it easy to turn your home into one giant sound system. Install speakers in every room and listen to your favourite music, talkshow or podcast wherever you are in your house.
4. Robot vacuum cleaners Current robot vacuum cleaners will move around the room cleaning as they go, leaving you free to get on with other things. Newer models are being developed with laser
technology that enables them to map your room to ensure a thorough clean.
5. Thermal imaging gun This handy gadget allows you to literally see through walls! Track down leaks and never put another nail through a pipe or cable again.
6. Biofuel fireplaces Now you can have a fire even if you don't have a fireplace. What's more, it's completely portable, so you can even place in the centre of the room if you so wish. Powered by ethanol or other biofuel, it's clean, green and amazing to look at.
7. Self-monitoring appliances Washing machines, fridges and other home appliances will soon be conversing with your smartphone to keep you informed of their energy consumption, so you'll never be surprised by your utility bills again.
8. Ever-changing vista As TV screens have got bigger and bigger, it was only a matter of time before someone came up with this idea. Use digital screens to display the view of your choice. From a sea view at sunset to clouds scudding past on your ceiling, you can choose any scenario you wish, to suit your mood.
9. Smart door handle Here's one for everyone who has ever gone back to check that the cooker is switched off after leaving home. A front door handle connected to a system that automatically switches off appliances when you leave the house puts an end to at least one of life's stresses.
10. 3-D printers There's been a lot of buzz about these printers, which look set to take the world by storm. Download and print 3 Dimensional objects, from Mini-Me figurines to shoes!
Technology can transform our homes, from the incredible smart windows developed by the Dream Glass Group, to the intelligent door handle which shuts down dangerous appliances as we leave the house. Life is set to become easier and more comfortable for just about everyone.
Catherine Sanders writes about home improvements for a number of websites and blogs. A keen fan of
technology, she plans to use some of these tips in her own home. In particular, she is keen to incorporate some of the amazing glass features from the
Dream Glass Group, which looks like science fiction made fact!
Mary
