Smart home essentials

These are some of the popular features expected in an Indian smart home

Security: Video door monitoring, motion sensors, gas leakage detection, intrusion sensors, curtain sensors.

Lighting control: Remote on/off, presence detection.

Electrical: Smart air conditioning, smart refrigerators.

Entertainment: AV controls, gaming consoles.

Communication: GPS navigation connected to entry and exit, proximity door unlocking.

DRIVERS

For the Indian buyer of a smart home, the unit home must above all include electronic security features. Energy efficiency is another aspect that is becoming increasingly popular among home buyers. People are willing to spend more for a smart AC, smart TV or a smart refrigerator. Advanced security, however, has been the main driver.

BARRIERS

In India, the barriers to large-scale acceptance of smart homes are crumbling. The factors that hinder mass acceptance are : Cost and the lack of awareness. Most expect that smart technologies will add to the security of living in some way or the other; if it does not, the offering is close to unacceptable. Things like AC control or smart gadgets are considered desirable, but not an absolute necessity. The demand for technologies are not yet a big factor in smart residential units in India.

PREMIUM

While average Indian home buyers are positive to the idea of a smart home, they are willing to spend no more than 1-3% extra for a home featuring smart solutions. The upper-income groups extend the premium acceptance to 5-8%; which, it must be stated, is still low when seen in the light of the overall benefits available in smart homes. Yet, things are definitely looking up as awareness and acceptance levels are increasing.

Ateet Vengurlekar
Principal Architect and Interior Designer, Blue Arch Interiors & Architects Consultants