Building a smart home has been an incredible journey filled with both excitement and challenges. As someone who started with basic ESP8266 boards and MQTT, I’ve come a long way in understanding the complexities of home automation. My wife, who relies on a wheelchair, inspired me to create a home where she could control lights, doors, and climate with ease. This journey has not only transformed our home but also my career, as I left accounting to pursue building and automation full-time.
Now, with plans for a new build in North West London, I’m faced with the opportunity to design a system from scratch. The goal is to create a fully wired setup without relying on Wi-Fi, which my wife strongly prefers. This means I need to explore protocols like Modbus and systems like KNX or Loxone. I’m curious about how others have approached similar projects and would love to hear about your experiences.
Some questions I’m grappling with include:
- How should I wire mains to lights while keeping switches low voltage?
- What are the best options for light switches and sensors that integrate seamlessly with third-party devices like curtain motors?
- Is Modbus a feasible choice for someone without a programming background?
I’m also considering the utility room as a central hub for relays and other hardware. The challenge is to balance functionality with ease of use, ensuring my wife retains control without feeling overwhelmed by technology.
If anyone has insights or recommendations on wired systems, protocols, or integration tips, I’d be thrilled to hear from you! Let’s collaborate and make this vision a reality.