81% of current smart-home device owners say they would be more willing to buy a home with connected tech already built in, signaling a big shift in home preferences and styles from previous generations. As technology becomes more and more integrated into our daily lives, it also affects the space we live in. From smart home technologies to universal design and eco-friendly appliances, here is how to futureproof the design of your home while also increasing its efficiency.

Using Smart Technologies to Automate Your Home

By 2021, smart home devices will surpass smartphones as a share of deployed connected and IoT devices, meaning that you and your home are about to become even more connected. The great thing about all of these types of technological innovations is that they are all connected to the Internet of Things, making them easy to manipulate and control from wherever you are in the world. This type of automation not only increases efficiency, it ensures safety as well. The ability to remotely control locks, lights, security, view camera feeds, and more via an app is appealing to most buyers, millennials or otherwise.

Placing Importance on Energy Efficiency 

The environment is one of the biggest concerns for millennials, and 78% are willing to change their lifestyle and shopping habits to help protect the environment. This dedication to protecting the environment has led to an increase for the desire of energy efficient appliances and technology in homes that can help conserve energy. Technologies and devices such as smart lighting and smart thermostats are on the rise as more people begin to focus on eco-friendly housing. Not only are more homeowners including these as a way to help reduce their environmental impact, they are also seeing a reduction in their monthly utility bills, up to 30% per year in some areas of the country.

Focusing on Universal Design

This 21st-century design concept revolves around design features in an environment that is accessible by anybody. Not only does this increase accessibility, which can actually increase a home’s overall value, it allows for people to live in an open space that feels more modern and welcoming. Including these features in a home ensures that space can be accessed and enjoyed by anybody, and some of these design trends include simple fixes such as microwaves that are built into a drawer or center islands that make kitchens more open and accessible. Other universal design techniques can even include moving fireplaces up off the ground to ensure they make more floor space, look stylish and don’t pose any risk to visitors.

The Future of Home Design

There is no doubt that we live in a digital world, and homeowners are beginning to see and reap the benefits of that constant connectivity. From the ability to automate a home’s functions and reduce energy consumption to design trends that hinge on the 21st century ideal of accessibility and acceptance for all, designing a home that is fit for the future is easier than you might think. And, it doesn’t hurt that these technologies make life easier for you along the way.