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The “toothbrush-ready” home isn’t a new concept in home development, but it’s growing in importance. The term is used to describe a home that is completely move-in ready; all the new homeowners have to do is bring their toothbrush and settle in.
Certainly, the aesthetic appeal of a home is still important to home buyers, but I believe it’s time for a paradigm shift in the designing and building industry for the modern age of smart living and functional needs. The sole pursuit of visual appeal isn’t enough, but a more holistic “toothbrush-ready” approach prioritizes livability and functionality at the onset of planning and construction. Smart-home technology is becoming a critical component to that.
Photo credit: Zhudifeng / Getty Images
Prioritizing Functionality
Traditionally, home design has been focused on form and function, with aesthetics and structural infrastructure taking centerstage. An open floor plan, enough closet space, plenty of lighting, modern appliances and rooms big enough for families are some of the everyday living necessities the average home buyer continues to prioritize.
However, comprehensive smart-home automation is growing in demand alongside aesthetics. Gone are the days when a home was merely a showcase for guests while everything had to be manually controlled. Today, the home is a sanctuary where we live, work and play, and the automation of lighting, climate, security and even window treatment control is seamlessly integrated for the ultimate experience.
The Integration
One of the key pillars of toothbrush-ready design is infrastructure. Beyond the common aspects of design, such as paint colors and furniture selection, architects and builders must anticipate the fundamental infrastructure requirements of a home.
With smart-home technology becoming increasingly ubiquitous, it’s essential to seamlessly integrate these systems—which also is part of future-proofing a property—to meet the demands of modern living. This includes ensuring items like:
- Adequate wiring for networking, speakers and security systems
- Motorized window treatments
- Lighting control
- Home automation devices
The Appeal of ‘Toothbrush-Ready Homes’
Smart-home technology features are a major step in developing the “toothbrush-ready” home. Homeowners are no longer satisfied with spaces that look good on paper but fail to meet their practical needs. Instead, they’re seeking homes that not only reflect their personal style but also support their day-to-day activities and routines at the push of a button.
By prioritizing smart-home automation and livability alongside aesthetics, spaces can be created that not only dazzle the eye but also enrich the lives of those who inhabit them.
