How to Future Proof Your Home

Casting one’s mind into the future can be both exciting and scary, because – well – we can’t possibly know what will happen. But when it comes to your home, there are many things that can be done to prepare it for all kinds of eventualities. Taking things into account such as the continual advancement of technology, our need to become more energy efficient, and of course, a population increasing in age. Adaptability is key to future proof your home, as is a little lateral thinking and the ability to visualise how your home can continue to meet you and your family’s needs in the years to come.

Get Smart

There’s no doubt about it – our addiction to technology will play far into the future. With the Internet of Things growing rapidly by the day, it is worth taking a closer look at how our home can accommodate the likes of big data and smart technology. There are already gadgets such as Nest that learn on the job to make your home more energy efficient. Add to that remote controlled sound and lighting systems, and intelligent security setups – smart is definitely the way forward.

Go Green

Terms such as ‘climate change’, ‘carbon footprint’ and ‘eco-friendly’ are being thrown about on a regular basis. Whatever your own views one thing is for certain: making your home more energy efficient will only ever have positive outcomes. From insulation to boilers and solar panels, energy-saving lighting and smart appliances – a greener home is a happier home and a lot cheaper to run.

Age Well

Our incredible achievements in medicine have led to a population whose age is on the up. Sadly however, many elderly people find themselves having to leave their home because it is no longer accessible to them. This does not have to be the case. Making practical adjustments not only allows people to stay in their home longer but will also increase its value. Suggestions to future proof include turning the bathroom into a wet room, knocking through to create an open-plan layout, and installing a platform lift or domestic lift to allow access between floors.