Industry Survey Illustrates Challenges Architects and Builders Face Designing Smart Homes

Smart technology provider BRAVAS recently announced key results of a new industry-wide survey that revealed significant findings on the challenges architects and luxury home builders face in the design and construction of custom properties requiring the integration of smart technology and automation solutions.   

The online survey was presented to more than 3,000 architects and luxury home builders across the U.S. during early June. The results underscore the growing importance of early-stage collaboration with integrators in the luxury home market, highlighting enhanced project outcomes and increased homeowner satisfaction.  

Costs, Compatability and Other Hurdles to Smart Integration

Twenty percent of respondents said high costs associated with smart home solutions represent a significant challenge faced when integrating smart home technologies, followed by 19% saying they lack knowledge and training on smart home tech; difficulty finding reliable vendors and products; and compatibility issues with existing home systems.  

Greater accessibility to the right integrators can help architects and builders. While only 19% of architects and builders said they regularly work with custom integrators on smart home projects–60% said sometimes–the majority of respondents (31%) said they need better access to skilled custom integrators. Another 30% said they need access to more reliable custom integrators who stand behind their products.

Of those architects and builders who are currently partnering with custom integrators, 23% said they get the most value out of the integrators’ expertise and solutions, along with help with setup and servicing. Another 22% said they benefit from the integrators’ understanding of advanced tech offerings, and ability to help plan out architectural needs.  

Furthermore, architects and builders are increasingly relying on custom integrators for a variety of key strategic areas. The majority (28%) said they rely on integrators during the initial design and planning phase.   

Mark Goldman, chairman and CEO of Bravas, commented:

“The results of this survey shine a spotlight on the increasingly essential role that custom integrators play in the overall design and construction of luxury custom homes. By partnering with a reputable nationwide custom integrator offering advanced product solutions, reliable warranties, and superior lifetime service, architects, builders, and designers gain access to a wealth of expertise and innovation, ensuring seamless integration of advanced technologies that enhance the functionality, security, and aesthetic appeal of luxury homes. By collaborating early on, architects, builders, and designers can deliver a superior, future-ready living experience that meets the discerning demands of their clientele. This collaboration not only elevates the home's market appeal but also provides clients with a tailored, intuitive living environment, ultimately setting a new standard in luxury living.”