The Radiant by Legrand Wireless Charger holds and charges a wireless phone in a sleek cradle backed by a Qi-certified charging pad. The device replaces a standard, single-gang outlet and creates the look of a two-gang outlet, allowing more options for charging devices in a smaller space. This charging unit offers simultaneous charging via multiple access points, including two AC receptacles, one wireless charging pad and one USB port.

July 30, 2018

In our recently released July/August issue of KBB magazine, one of the many highlights was on the smart home and the smart appliances, fixtures and connected home systems that are changing this growing industry. Connected home experts and manufacturers spoke on the topic and emphasized that the smart home trend is picking up speed among consumers.

“As more people realize the many ways in which connected appliances can enrich their lives, we will see more adoption,” said Lore McKenna, director of corporate communications for BSH Home Appliances. “We see connected appliances heading further down the path of offering individualized experiences that enrich life.”

View a gallery of smart home products HERE.

Catering to the Consumer
According to Matt Rolandson, a partner at San Francisco-based Ammunition, manufacturers are starting to understand how technology can best enhance standard home features.

“I think a lot of us are finally figuring out that if we use the net to augment and enhance the service experience people already expect from a type of product, we have a much better shot at a hit,” said Rolandson, whose firm is known for its work with smart home products. “Attempting to use networked computing to totally disrupt and revolutionize everyday expectations around a product does not work.”

The smart home products that do work usually fulfill several requirements, including making tasks easier, putting the user in control, adding subtle delight to daily interactions and delivering value. Everyone at any budget and age group can benefit from features such as these, which are included in products like Lutron’s Caseta Smart Lighting System and the Perlick 24-in. Column Refrigerator.

“Just a few years ago, most of us would have said that tech enthusiasts with above-average capacity to spend were the only consumer audience, but the audience really has become bigger and more diverse,” said Rolandson. “The tide of smart products and services has risen.”

Trends in the Kitchen and Bath
Today’s kitchen is all about gathering together and spending time with friends and family. Technology – in products like the new warming drawer from Viking Range – is paving the way for homeowners to use the kitchen like this more, despite busy schedules and a lack of cooking experience. This type of product saves both time and energy for the homeowner.

“Homeowners want a connected home that enables them to live the life they want to live,” said Tom Halford,vice president, premium and builder brands at Samsung Electronics America. “They want to stay organized and better connected with family and friends – from food management and home automation, to communication and entertainment. The ideal connected home eliminates unnecessary steps for today’s homeowner, freeing up time for them to do what they love.”

People use the bathroom for relaxation and recharging, and technology can also enhance this experience.

“The bathroom is definitely a new addition to the smart home trend,” said Nicole Allis, Kohler marketing manager. “Consumers are eager to explore how technology can simplify and enhance their lives and experience, while still keeping a critical eye on those unnecessary products that seem to add clutter or non-essential functionality.”

The most popular products include spa-like enhancements, such as steam showers with chromotherapy, aromatherapy and music integration. Key to these types of products is customization; this type of technology can remember personalized settings for several family members and create the best experience for a specific user.

What’s Coming
One of the most important features of the connected home is the connection itself. If a homeowner has to switch between different apps to control different products, the smart home would be less time saving and more of a nuisance. Instead, overall smart home systems – such as Google Home, Amazon’s Alexa and the Apple HomePod – make it possible to control an entire home from one app.

“As the popularity of smart assistants is showing, there is wide spectrum of manufacturers ready to take the leap into smart technologies,” said Dirk Sappok, director of product development for Miele USA. “Products will create an ecosystem that adapts to the needs of their owners and will provide what they want – like mood lighting or a coffee maker starting – when and how they want it.”