Looking for some cool house design ideas? Want to incorporate some of the latest technologies? You’ve come to the right place. Spring is the time of year when all the big design and building trade shows happen. We wanted to share some of the coolest house design ideas we’ve came across, including some you will see in some of our future projects!
Smart Glass
Smart glass is also referred to as privacy glass or electric switchable glass. This type of glass uses electro-chromatic technology to change from clear to opaque. And all you have to do is flick a switch. Depending on what you need, you can have privacy or enjoy the view. Light can still pass through this glass on opaque mode, ensuring your space stays bright.
Solstice Shingles
Solstice Shingles are made by Certainteed. They are an innovative solar roofing solution that combines the benefits of traditional asphalt shingles with the power of solar energy. Not only do these shingles look good, they’re also a sustainable energy source. They’re similar to the Tesla shingles (that were supposed to hit the market a few years ago) and integrate into a conventional shingle roof. Also, they don’t void your roof warranty like most solar panel installations do.
Green/Living Roofs and Walls
While not a new technology, we are seeing more and more clients request green roofs for their new custom homes in the Fraser Valley.
Here’s how it works: We add a layer of grow media (soil) to cover the roof. We then plant grasses, sedums, shrubs or other ground cover in the soil. What’s really amazing is that it extends the life of the roof membrane: It protects it from damaging UV rays, which are the main cause of roof wear. Plus, a green roof filters rainwater to remove most of the impurities, insulates the home and looks great doing it.
Home Automation
Home Automation is another cool home design idea that we are seeing an increased demand for. A well-integrated automation system from companies like Control 4, Crestron or Savant allows any powered item in your home to be fully automated. It can then be operated from a smart phone or a wall touchscreen.
Customized scenes allow for a number of commands to be sent with one touch. For example, you can create a scene called Relax. This could activate certain lights, dim them, close blinds, lock doors, turn on a playlist on Spotify, adjust the temperature, turn on the fireplace… all with just one touch! Just think of the possibilities.
If you’re looking to build a custom home or renovate your existing one be sure to get in touch. We can discuss how to incorporate some of these cool house design ideas into your plans.