Technology is evolving at an accelerating pace, revolutionizing the way industries have been run for decades. The home industry is no exception to this rule and technology is transforming the way homes are designed, built and lived in.
Design Customization
One of the biggest challenges homeowners face on their interior and remodeling journey is the gap between what they want and what's available on the market. Large Language Model (LLM) and Machine Learning (ML) driven information discovery using tools like Bard, ChatGPT, etc. will play an important role in bridging this gap.
A home is one of the most personalized purchases anyone makes in their lifetime. Homeowners want their home to reflect their personality, style and preferences. Thanks to technologies such as 3D printing, homeowners can order highly personalized furniture and decor for their home. A key element in customizing a home is translating the designs crafted by interior designers and contractors into the context of homeowners.
Machine learning, in particular, is extremely powerful in helping homeowners and designers automate home design and make choices based on homeowners' unstated needs.
Once a custom design is created, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) experiences emerge as the mainstream solutions replacing the tried and true PC-based 3D viewing experiences.
This becomes especially powerful when users can not only experience pre-created designs in AR/VR, but can also modify the designs themselves in real time.
Transforming homes into dream spaces
Verifying authenticity is one of the biggest challenges for buyers of high-end furniture and other luxury goods. Buyers currently rely on sourcing channels such as authorized sellers to ensure authenticity. Blockchain-based authenticity verification is a complete game-changer, allowing buyers to verify their ownership and verify authenticity directly in their mobile phones.
Technology is also transforming the way homes are built. Modular construction is becoming increasingly popular, with prefabricated components being fabricated offsite and then assembled onsite. This process reduces construction time and costs, while producing less waste. 3D printing technology is also being explored in the construction industry, with entire homes being built using this technology.
Another challenge in creating dream spaces is to pull off the intricate last mile execution, especially for complex installations such as custom/dynamic furniture, custom kitchens, etc.
Design-integrated installation experiences powered by augmented reality for the last-mile workforce will revolutionize both their efficiency and speed. In tandem, these have the potential to help contain the ancillary costs of creating dream spaces, opening up custom home design and decorating to new market segments.
Connected self-managed homes are the future
Smart devices such as robot vacuums and smart refrigerators are increasingly proliferating in homes, easing the busy schedules of today's families. By learning and adapting to our daily routines, these devices make our lives easier and more convenient.
As smart devices are present in most homes, there has also been an early proliferation of smart surfaces in recent years. These surfaces, such as smart mirrors and countertops, can incorporate technology to provide a more functional and efficient space.
For example, smart mirrors can be used to show weather updates, news, and even workout routines, while smart counters can be used to charge devices and show recipes. These features not only enhance the functionality of the space, but also provide a unique and personalized experience for owners.
Working in tandem with voice-enabled devices, connected smart homes that can not only efficiently manage themselves but also increasingly personalize themselves for their residents aren't too far off.
With the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), smart homes will become more intuitive and responsive to homeowner needs.
Domestic industry needs to embrace technology
From custom furniture to blockchain-based authenticity verification and augmented reality-powered installation experiences, technology enables homeowners to create dreamy spaces that reflect their personality and style.
Smart devices and surfaces increase the functionality of homes while making our lives easier and more convenient. With the advent of IoT and AI, connected homes can also be equipped with security systems capable of detecting suspicious activity and alerting owners or authorities.
Smart cameras and sensors can monitor the home environment, while smart locks can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app. These safety features provide peace of mind to homeowners and create a safer living environment.
As the home industry continues to evolve with technology, it's important for industry professionals to adapt, keep up to date with the latest trends and tools (staying one step ahead) and to provide the best possible service to their customers. .
At the same time, it's important to recognize that technology is not a one-size-fits-all solution for the home industry. While technology can improve and streamline certain aspects of the industry, it cannot replace the importance of human connection and creativity. Designing and building homes are deeply personal and emotional experiences, and technology should be used to enhance those experiences, not replace them.
As the industry continues to evolve with technology, it is important to recognize both its potential and its limitations. By embracing technology while prioritizing human connection and creativity, we can create truly transformative and personalized living spaces for homeowners.
Written by Abhishek Kasina, Product Manager, Livspace