Smart Houses

Divided into three sections, The Smart House Book illustrates how the many manifestations of technology are changing our homes. Each aspect of this technology whether it is digital or real, illustrates actual projects by top architects. Where appropriate, plans and drawings are used to further convey the message.

Section One: Smart Technology: The digital house has arrived and this technology is beginning to have a profound impact on the way in which we live. This section looks at five aspects of this technology and show how it is being integrated throughout the house: lighting design and window treatments ("electronic" glass, window covering that automatically respond to changes in weather, etc.) audio and video entertainment, voice and data management, security and access, and environmental controls and energy management.

Section Two: Smart Materials: New building materials such as titanium, electronic glass that can become transparent or opaque at the flick of a switch, polycarbonate materials, laser perforated metals—all are changing the way homes are built and the ways in which we use and perceive spaces within these structures. Recently completed projects that celebrate these new materials and construction techniques are featured.

Section Three: Smart Design: Swimming pools cantilevered in mid-air, windows that recreate digital views at night, interior spaces whose functions are transformed through architectural slight of hand and by computer aided design, all point to new ways of thinking about how we live and how we use space in this increasingly space-challenged world. Several recent projects where smart design has created breathtaking results are featured.