Hi everyone! 
I’m thrilled to share my journey of creating a fully automated smart home for my new house. It’s been an exciting challenge, and I wanted to document my progress and gather some insights from the community.
Starting fresh with a new build has given me the perfect opportunity to integrate smart technology from the ground up. My main goals include seamless voice control via Alexa, automated lighting, energy monitoring, and a robust security system. I’ve been researching hardware options and am leaning towards a mix of Zigbee and Wi-Fi devices for reliability and ease of use.
One of the first systems I tackled was the lighting. I’ve installed Amazon Basics smart LED bulbs throughout the house, which have been a great choice for their affordability and compatibility with Alexa. Pairing them with smart switches has allowed me to create routines that adapt to my daily schedule, like dimming the lights in the evening or turning them on as I approach the house.
For security, I’ve gone with a combination of Fibaro motion sensors and Arlo cameras. The Fibaro sensors have been impressing me with their reliability and ability to integrate smoothly with my hub. The Arlo cameras provide excellent video quality and two-way audio, which is a huge plus for monitoring the property.
Energy monitoring is another area I’m passionate about. I’ve set up smart plugs to track electricity usage in real-time, which has already helped me identify areas where I can reduce consumption. It’s been fascinating to see how small changes can make a big difference in both convenience and sustainability.
As I continue this project, I’m always on the lookout for tips and recommendations. For anyone embarking on a similar journey, I’d suggest starting with a clear plan, prioritizing reliable hardware, and taking it one room at a time. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process much more enjoyable.
I’d love to hear from those of you who’ve tackled large-scale automation projects—what were your biggest challenges, and what solutions did you find most effective? 