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  • Getting Smart-6 Smart Technology Upgrades to Add Value to Your Property

    We all want to add value to our properties, and while physical improvements can help, you can add substantial value by adding smart technology to your home or apartment. No matter where you live  — from a small apartment in an expensive city like Pittsburgh to a suburban home in California — here are six ways you can quickly get smart:

    HVAC

    Remember that old thermostat that your parents had in their house? It was a round thing with a spring in it that moved with temperature changes and caused a blob of highly poisonous mercury to contact an electrical circuit. 

    That made the furnace turn on and off, and all adjustments had to be made manually. Finally, programmable thermostats appeared, but programming was so complex that you almost needed to be a coder to manipulate the settings. 

    Today we are lucky to have smart thermostats that allow users to easily lock in a variety of settings, and best of all, this can be accomplished on a smart device from anywhere. 

    If you still have that old thermostat, your energy bills are increasing, and you can’t seem to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, it may be time to get a qualified HVAC technician (with the right tools) round to replace your HVAC system.

    Garden

    Ever been embarrassed because you forgot to turn the sprinkler off before a major rain event occurred? With a smart garden app, this just won’t happen as some of the best actually interface with the local weather. Purchase a smart garden app and system and you’ll be able to set sprinkling times, test soil moisture levels, and never again have to worry about watering at the wrong time.

    Lighting

    Our first rule: Get rid of incandescent and fluorescent bulbs and fixtures. 

    Rule # 2: Replace them with LEDs. LEDs are quickly becoming cheaper, and while they may now even closely resemble old-fashioned light bulbs, they are more durable, last longer and throw a variety of light hues. After you have made the switch, get a smart lighting app and control everything from wherever you are.

    Security

    Security used to be your dog. Then, motion detectors appeared, and many alarm companies wanted you to sign contracts so that if they detected motion in your home, they would automatically call the police. 

    Motion detectors still have a role to play, but new smart systems employ an array of small cameras that interface with an app that can be controlled from any mobile device. In fact, you’ll get a notification when anything odd is occurring in your house like leaks, smoke, or even a door that is ajar.

    Entryway

    It was great when coded entryway doorknobs appeared because you no longer had to have a key to open your door, and you could—albeit clunkily—program the doorknobs with multiple codes for different purposes. 

    Again, the first programmable entryway hardware was a revelation, but now you can get a smart entryway system that includes a camera along with a way to communicate with whoever is at your doorstep. This can also help you with new home design ideas, as many of the bulky entryway hardware is no longer necessary and won’t be a sore on the eyes! Check out the following resource if you’re looking for energy-efficient home design ideas.

    Automate It

    Finally, if you really want to do this right, but a complete home automation system that includes all of the apps listed above. If you do this, you can control all of your home’s systems with one device like a pad or even a phone.

    Check out the newest smart apps today and add value to your property immediately!

    How Do You Blend Antiques with Modern Décor for a Luxe Vibe?

    When it comes to creating a home that oozes personality and a sense of curated luxury, there’s nothing quite like mixing the old with the new. Antiques, with their unique charm and intricate details, are perfect pieces to anchor modern décor in opulence, offering contrast and character. But the question is, how do you seamlessly […]

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    Korean wallpaper: the preferred choice for modern spaces

    In recent years, Korean wallpaper has become one of the top choices of families and businesses when it comes to decorating living and working spaces. With outstanding advantages in quality, design and aesthetics, Korean wallpaper not only helps to refresh the space but also creates a modern and luxurious beauty. 1. High-quality, durable material One […]

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    How Architects are Incorporating LED Mirrors in Luxury Bathroom Projects

    Luxury bathrooms are no longer just functional spaces. They have evolved into sanctuaries of style and comfort. One feature architects now swear by is the LED mirror, which combines modern aesthetics with practicality. These mirrors are becoming a staple in high-end designs. They elevate the ambiance, add functionality, and fit perfectly into various decor styles. […]

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    10 Passive Heating Strategies for Energy-Efficient Homes in Cold Climates

    Heating a home in cold climates can be a significant challenge, both environmentally and financially. Traditional systems often rely on energy-intensive methods, which can lead to high utility costs and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. However, passive heating strategies offer an alternative that is not only cost-effective but also environmentally sustainable. By integrating smart architectural […]

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    75 Living Room Lighting Ideas For Indian Homes

    Today, Living room lighting ideas are taking a whole new shape globally. However, certain countries reflect the local context. In India, living room lighting ideas are crucial in attaining the occupants’ visual comfort where traditional and modern design elements coexist. In this curated list of living room lighting ideas, you will be highlighted with types, […]

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    100 Stunning Bedroom Furniture Ideas to Elevate Your Bedroom’s Look

    Your bedroom is more than just a place to sleep; it’s your retreat, a haven of comfort and style. The furniture you choose plays a big role in shaping how this space feels and functions. The right furniture can redefine your bedroom’s aesthetic while maximizing comfort and utility. Explore statement bed frames, clever storage innovations, […]

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    Top Trends in Louver Interior Doors for 2024

    Elevating Interiors with Louvered Doors Louver doors have been a timeless addition to homes, blending functionality and aesthetic appeal. As we step into 2024, these versatile doors are evolving with innovative designs, fresh colors, and sustainable materials. This article explores the top trends shaping louver interior doors for 2024, offering insights to help you make informed […]

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    Ultimate Guide To Stylish Living Room Furniture For Small Spaces

    Got a small space and big dreams for your living room? You’re not alone. Many face the challenge of finding living room furniture that fits tight spots but still oozes style. It’s like trying to squeeze into jeans from high school—tough, but not impossible. Here’s a cool fact: you can have chic and functional spaces […]

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    25 Practical Bedroom Wardrobe Designs to Elevate Your Space

    Creating the perfect wardrobe design for your bedroom interiors can feel like a challenging puzzle. After all, this piece of furniture isn’t just for storing clothes – it’s also a defining feature of your room’s style and a key element of organization. It’s not just a practical necessity; it’s also an essential element that contributes […]

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    25 Stunning False Ceiling Designs for Your Living Room

    When you walk into a room, what’s the first thing you notice in the interiors? The furniture, the walls, or the ceiling? Often overlooked, the ceiling plays a significant role in defining the ambiance of a room. If you’re looking to add some flair, sophistication, or a modern touch to your living room, false ceiling […]

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  • Magazine December Edition 2024
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