Smarter Living Starts Here: Must-Have Smart Tech for Your Custom Home in Adelaide

If you’re planning a custom home, there’s never a better time to get smart home features right than during the design phase. That’s why more custom builders are working closely with homeowners to make sure the technology matches the lifestyle.

Let’s walk through what’s worth including—and what’s better left out—for a smart home that works for you.

Why Smart Home Tech Belongs in Your Custom Build

Smart technology isn’t just about novelty. Done well, it improves how you live every day.

Think about it:

• No more coming home to a dark house
• Energy savings from smarter climate control
• Front door cameras and smart locks for peace of mind
• Control from your phone, whether you’re in the kitchen or on holiday

Smart features are even more useful when they’re fully integrated. That’s what makes a new build such a great opportunity. You’re not retrofitting. You’re designing from the ground up with these systems in mind.

Builders can pre-wire your home for future upgrades, suggest compatible systems, and help avoid costly add-ons later.

Key Smart Technologies to Consider

There’s a growing list of smart home gadgets out there. But not everything is worth including in your build. Some tools stand out for their practicality, while others are better left for later.

Here are the essential features most homeowners in Adelaide are including in their custom homes:

1. Smart Lighting Systems
   These allow you to control lights via app, voice, or automation. Dim lights from bed, schedule outdoor lights to switch on at sunset, or turn everything off with a single command when you leave.

Lighting can be programmed for security too making it look like you’re home when you’re away.

2. Smart Thermostats and Zoning
   Heating and cooling are big energy users. Smart thermostats like Google Nest or Ecobee help you control them efficiently. Some systems also support zoned control, so you’re not wasting energy on unused rooms.

Set schedules based on your habits. Adjust from your phone on hot days. Even link to your location so the system powers down when you leave.

3. Video Doorbells and Smart Locks
   Security is high on the list for many homeowners. Video doorbells like Ring or Arlo let you see who’s at your door in real time. Smart locks can let in guests or trades while you’re at work.

You’ll also get:

• Motion alerts on your phone
• Footage recordings if something happens
• Integration with other systems like smart lights or alarms

4. Automated Blinds and Curtains
   It’s not just about luxury—automated blinds can help manage heat, sunlight, and privacy. Program them to close during the hottest part of the day, or open at sunrise to help you wake naturally.

These systems work best when built in from the start. Talk to your builder early if it’s something you want.

5. Home Networking and Wi-Fi Planning
   A smart home is only as good as its connection. That’s why proper network setup is essential. Mesh Wi-Fi systems, ethernet wiring, and designated tech hubs help keep everything running smoothly.

Many of Adelaide’s custom builders now work with home tech consultants to plan out:

• Data points in each room
• Hidden network cabinets

Outdoor Wi-Fi access for backyard cameras or speakers

Builders Are Seeing a Shift Toward Whole-Home Integration

Instead of scattered gadgets, the trend now is whole-home systems. That means devices that talk to each other—and a central app or panel that gives you control. You can set “scenes” that adjust multiple things at once. For example:

• A “Good Morning” scene might open blinds, switch on the coffee machine, and play your favourite playlist
• A “Leaving Home” scene could turn off all lights, lock doors, and reduce heating

Your builder and integrator can help you decide how complex or simple you want it.

Smart Appliances: Built-In or Upgrade Later?

Fridges that scan expiry dates. Ovens you preheat from the couch. Robot vacuums that map your floor. There’s no shortage of smart appliances.

But not all of them need to be part of your build.

Here’s a smart approach:

• Hardwired essentials like lighting, climate, security, and data should be built-in
• Smaller items like smart speakers, vacuums, or countertop devices can be added later

Custom home builders usually recommend focusing on infrastructure—wiring, access, and compatibility, so that adding or replacing appliances later is easy.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Custom home builders

Smart tech can help you live more sustainably without sacrificing comfort.

Think about:

• Solar panels linked with energy monitoring apps
• Smart irrigation systems that adjust to weather
• Battery storage with real-time usage data
• Electric vehicle chargers set to off-peak times

Many of these systems also qualify for local rebates. Ask your builder or energy provider what’s available in your area.

By planning ahead, you’ll save on running costs and make your home future ready.

What About Voice Control?

Voice assistants like Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple’s Siri are now common in smart homes. They let you control lights, locks, music, and more—just by speaking.

These systems work best when they’re integrated with other devices from the start. For example, you might say:

• “Hey Google, turn on the hallway lights”
• “Alexa, lock the front door”
• “Siri, lower the blinds in the lounge”

Talk to your builder about compatibility, so you’re not stuck with devices that don’t connect.

Don’t Forget Backup and Security

The more connected your home is, the more important it is to protect it.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Choose a secure home Wi-Fi network with strong passwords
• Keep your apps and devices updated regularly
• Use devices that support two-factor authentication
• Set up cloud backups for your video footage and automation settings

Smart technology isn’t just a luxury anymore—it’s becoming the standard for homes that work better, feel more comfortable, and adapt to your lifestyle. From lighting that shifts with your routine to climate control that learns your preferences, it’s about creating a space that makes life simpler and more efficient.

The right setup does more than impress—it improves your everyday experience. When you build with experienced custom builders like Format Homes, you can hardwire convenience, comfort, and control into the very foundation of your home.