Automation is something that comes into a lot of our projects now, but it’s not something we’re introducing for the first time when we get involved.
Most of the time, it’s already been considered by the wider team. There will usually be input from the occupational therapist, and in some cases an assistive technology report has already been done. That gives a clear idea of what the client needs and how they’re going to use the systems day to day.
From there, it’s less about deciding if automation is needed and more about making sure it’s delivered properly.
Getting It Right for the Client
The main driver is always the client’s current needs, but future-proofing plays a big part as well.
What works now might need to change over time, so it’s important to think ahead. That could be how the system is controlled, whether that’s through a mouthpiece, voice, or another interface, or it could be allowing for additional elements to be added later.
It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. It has to be based on how that individual is going to live in the property.
What Makes the Biggest Difference
In practical terms, some of the simplest elements tend to have the biggest impact.
Doors, windows and curtains are probably the main ones. For someone using a wheelchair, opening a door isn’t always straightforward. You might not have the reach, or you can’t use one hand to open the door while moving at the same time.
Automating those elements makes movement around the property much easier and more natural.
Lighting is another one that can make a difference, not just in terms of control, but how it’s set up. You can adjust lighting levels throughout the day so it reflects natural light, which helps create a more comfortable environment.
Coordination Is Where It Works
The biggest part of making automation work is coordination.
You’ve got the automation specialist, the contractor and the wider team all involved, and they all need to be aligned from the start. It’s not something that can just be dropped into the project later.
From our side, it’s about making sure those conversations are happening early and that everyone understands how their work fits together. If that’s done properly, the installation runs much more smoothly.
Planning Ahead, Not Fixing Later
Automation relies on electrical systems, so it’s important to think about how the property will function in different situations.
That includes making sure there are backup measures in place where needed and that everything works safely alongside things like fire system
s. These aren’t issues you want to be dealing with later, so they’re considered from the design stage.
The same applies to future-proofing. Even if everything isn’t installed straight away, having the infrastructure in place means it can be added later without major disruption.
It Doesn’t Stop at Installation
One thing that’s important to understand is that automation doesn’t just get installed and left.
Once the client is living in the property, that’s when you really see how it works for them. Things like how fast a door opens or how responsive a system feels are down to personal preference.
That’s why it’s important to allow for adjustments after handover. The systems can be fine-tuned so they work in a way that feels right for the client.
Where It’s Heading
Automation is definitely becoming more common.
When I first started, it wasn’t used as much. Now it’s something we’re seeing more regularly, and not just in accessible homes. It’s becoming more normal in everyday properties as well.
The difference is that for most people it’s a convenience. For our clients, it’s something that can make a real difference to how they live day to day.
Final Thoughts
Automation works best when it’s thought about early and delivered as part of the overall design, not added on later.
It’s about making sure the right systems are in place, that they’re coordinated properly and that they actually work for the person using them.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how advanced the system is.
It’s about whether it makes everyday life easier.
