Category: technology

  • Creating a Cosy & Secure Smart Home: Balancing Tech & Warmth

    Creating a Cosy & Secure Smart Home: Balancing Tech & Warmth

    Smart technology has transformed modern living, making homes more convenient, efficient, and secure. However, many homeowners worry that integrating high-tech devices might make their space feel cold or impersonal. The key to balancing security with warmth is choosing smart solutions that enhance both comfort and aesthetics.

    Used with permission from Andrea West Design

    By selecting sleek, discreet security systems that blend effortlessly into a cosy interior, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of cutting-edge protection without compromising the inviting atmosphere of their home.

    The Challenge: Merging Smart Security with Cosy Interiors

    Traditional cosy spaces such as cottages and country homes are designed to feel warm, textured, and inviting. Modern technology, often associated with minimalist, high-tech aesthetics, can sometimes seem at odds with this style.

    Modern burglar alarm systems, like Verisure, are designed to complement rather than clash with cosy interiors. With discreet devices, seamless installation, and advanced monitoring, these systems allow homeowners to achieve peace of mind without disrupting their home’s charm.

    Ways to Keep a Home Cosy While Adding Smart Security

    1. Choose Wireless Solutions for a Seamless Look

    One of the biggest challenges of incorporating security technology into a warm, traditional space is dealing with visible wiring and bulky installations. Wireless security systems, such as Verisure, eliminate this issue by offering cable-free, minimally invasive setups that blend effortlessly into any home, without compromising on security. 

    Verisure’s security system is professionally installed with no need for major electrical or structural work, ideal for period properties, rental homes, or spaces where aesthetics are a priority. 

    Used with permission from Andrea West Design

    2. Opt for Discreet, Design-Conscious Devices

    Large, industrial-looking security equipment can feel out of place in a cosy home. Fortunately, modern security solutions prioritise sleek, minimalist designs that complement rather than overpower the decor.

    Verisure’s security devices – such as motion sensors, keypads, and cameras – are designed to be subtle yet effective, ensuring that they do not detract from the warmth of a space. Their compact size and neutral tones help them blend into the background, making them ideal for interiors that favour a soft, inviting aesthetic.

    2404-02 Eden Whole Home Interior Andrea West Design April 17, 2024 Copyright: Meagan Larsen / 2024

    Used with permission from Andrea West Design

    3. Integrate Security into Smart Home Ecosystems

    A well-connected smart home is both secure and comfortable. Integrating a security system with other smart features such as smartphone control and smart key fobs eliminate bulky alarm control panels, enhancing both safety and convenience. With the Verisure smartphone app, homeowners can adjust security settings remotely, ensuring their home remains protected without disrupting daily life. 

    4. Use Lighting to Create Ambience & Security

    Lighting plays a crucial role in making a home feel warm and secure. Warm tones can be used to create a cosy atmosphere indoors, while outdoor lighting can deter intruders from the outside.

    For example, Verisure’s motion-activated outdoor cameras with spotlights ensure that pathways and entryways are well-lit when needed, maintaining both a welcoming exterior and an added layer of security. Indoors, warm-toned smart bulbs can be used to soften the look of tech-heavy spaces, preventing a sterile feel.

    2110-12 Destiny Thompson’s Loft and Lifestyle October 25, 2021 © 2021 / Meagan Larsen

    Used with permission from Andrea West Design

    5. Incorporate Natural Materials & Soft Textures

    A simple way to balance technology with warmth is by surrounding smart devices with natural elements such as wood, linen, and soft furnishings. Placing a security device on a wooden shelf, using decorative baskets to conceal cables, or integrating cameras into bookcases can help modern security systems feel less intrusive.

    By styling tech devices with the same attention to detail as other decor elements, homeowners can ensure that their space remains inviting while benefiting from high-end security.

    Smart Security That Feels Like Home

    A home should be both welcoming and well-protected. With Verisure’s fully monitored, wireless security system, homeowners can enjoy cutting-edge protection without compromising on comfort.

    By integrating discreet, aesthetically pleasing security features, embracing smart home automation, and using lighting and decor to soften technology’s presence, it’s possible to create a space that is both safe and serene.

    After all, true home security isn’t just about protection—it’s about creating a place where you feel truly at ease. Thanks to Verisure for consulting.

  • The Futuristic Home: Automation

    The Futuristic Home: Automation

    Technology seems to take a new leap with each year that passes. It’s human nature after all — we are programmed to overcome life’s challenges through innovation and dogged dedication in the same manner that we have done for centuries. This past decade, however, we’ve taken technology to a whole new level as we’ve begun to dabble in wireless technology.

    home automation

    The greatest invention since the wheel has always been the internet. It has allowed us to access information whenever we needed it and it has been the basis for the tech industry’s obsession with wireless technology. Now it has begun to dabble in home automation technology. What is this, and how can such technology improve our homes?

    Automation refers to the ability to control and program devices that are connected to a local network. These devices can include smart speakers, wireless security cameras, smart lights, smart TVs, and even large appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. Some electronic door lock systems can even be controlled via a network.

    home automation

    You see, home decorating will always be the same in terms of popularity. Trends are as fickle as the weather in a Southeast Asian country. They are constantly changing and they are usually easy to follow. Technology, however, especially home automation, will revolutionize how we move inside our homes forever.

    You can literally be in the living room watching TV as the washing machine automatically washes, rinses, and dries your clothes. You can keep your hands free as you cook, only ever pausing to ask your smart speaker to dictate to you a certain recipe. You can even ask questions and receive instant results from the internet without having to access your mobile device.

    home automation

    Imagine ending your day with a “Hey Google, good night.” and in that instant, your lights dim, all your applications shut off, your doors lock, and your security systems come to life.

    Now we shouldn’t misconstrue this as an attempt to encourage a culture of laziness. This technology is especially beneficial to those who lack mobility. People who have suffered debilitating injuries will still be able to operate the things in their house with ease, while those who are able-bodied are able to reduce the time they spend on seemingly inconsequential tasks in order for them to able to devote their time and energy toward more productive ventures.

    As I said earlier, we as humans are naturally programmed to solve problems with innovation and dogged dedication. While home automation technology still has a long way to go, it can’t be denied that this technology will soon become the norm.

    We’ve only struck the tip of this technological iceberg and we can only continue to discover and develop further.

    Now, if this technology interests you and you want to find a house that comes equipped with some or all of these devices, consider asking some of these Bend Oregon real estate agents to help you. Not only are these professionals skilled in the art of negotiation, they also have vital connections with people who are sure to help you get some of the best deals in the real estate market.

    Thanks to Nest Bend Real Estate for partnering with us on this post! 

  • Smart Home Designs

    Upgrading your home has always been a toss on whether you want to do something just for the joy of having it done the way you always wanted it to and what has the best resale value. These days it seems like many of us don’t stay in one place very long so it doesn’t seem smart to invest much into it when you won’t be able to enjoy it for what it’s worth.

    Here are a few home designs for those of you who are like me, and plan on being around for a while! Why not enjoy it?

    - Master Bathroom Pictures From HGTV Smart Home 2014 on HGTV ~~ Yes, that's a TV in the shower!!!!
    via hgtv
    This technology upgraded bathroom is not only gorgeous but it’s pretty impressive with all it’s extra perks!
    Add something completely unique! This drop down bed makes this small square footage double.
    - Laundry Room Pictures From HGTV Smart Home 2014 on HGTV. Pet bed area perfect for my kitty litter box.
    via hgtv
    Need a pet friendly space that can tuck away when needed? These features in the laundry room make it very pet friendly without stealing much needed space.
    Serene and hardworking: Really, what more could you want in a family home? Lilli Lee's is a treasure chest of smart storage and soothing style. Take the tour and grab some tips for your own place.
    Don’t be afraid to go all out on storage space. Make it look great, especially if you know you will be using it on a daily basis. 
    If you had the extra funds, which room would you go all out on?
  • A New Look at Technology in Design

    A New Look at Technology in Design

    Sometimes it can feel like technology can get in the way of our home decor. A huge screen TV might not go along with your rustic look, but thankfully there are some clever ways of designing your space around your screens

    Built in cabinets are a great way to go! You can mount the TV on the wall or just place inside the cabinet and have a gorgeous space without the eye sore of screens, wires, and devices that with it!

    A fireplace is a gorgeous focal point of a room. A TV sitting above it is not! Having this slide away piece on top of the fireplace gives you that gorgeous focal point when it’s put away and functional for every day living.
    Under the stairs storage has always been a favorite of mine. Storing your TV in the under stair storage is a brilliant idea! It won’t break up the flow of the room when it’s put away and when you do have it out, it’s in perfect view with the rest of the room!

    Using a large photo split in two is a brilliant way to hide the TV. I love the idea of the ceiling mount track for the pictures so you could change out the art pieces if you wanted to later.

    Buying a good old fashioned wall mount to set your TV in is perfect if you are looking for a quick and easy fix!


    Don’t like the thought of going through the trouble to hide your TV? Try using your it as a centerpiece for your art. Placing your pictures around the it strategically can give the wall a great look without covering up the screen. 

  • My interview with Apartment Therapy’s Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan

    My interview with Apartment Therapy’s Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan

    I was so honored to have a chance to chat with Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan. He’s the founder of Apartment Therapy, which was the first design blog I ever discovered and what ultimately inspired me to start blogging. We talk about “techorating,” – successful decorating with technology that merges function and design. Below is the video of our interview, some still images, and even more tips from Maxwell on techorating.


    Maxwell in his chic office at the Apartment Therapy headquarters.

    The latest book from Apartment Therapy – “Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces,” is packed with ideas for integrating technology into your decor beautifully


    Apartment Therapy headquarters.

    Techorating in action at Apartment Therapy. Cord management has become more attractive over the years with nifty helpers like these CableDrop cable clips.

    One of my favorite ideas. I didn’t even know these existed – a charging station that can charge up to four phones and only one cord. It’s called the Duracell myGrid.


    Instead of the outdated speakers you see above…Maxwell suggests looking into products like this ceramic Phoneofone III by Science and Sons. Your iPhone sits in the cradle at the opening and the sound is amplified. Read/see more info at Science and Sons. You’d expect this beauty to be almost $1,000, but it’s actually $195 +SH.



    He also mentions this Jambox from Jawbone. Completely wireless and small – but 120 DB. Cost is $199 and it comes in several colors.


    Here are a few more resources from Maxwell.

    An article on merging color and technology on Apartment Therapy. Click here to read.

    A wiremold article for when you have to run cables/wires without drilling holes.

    Click here to read.