Not every homeowner wants a fully automated smart home with voice controls in every room — and that’s okay.
But as technology becomes more deeply woven into how we live, it’s worth considering how your future home will support your lifestyle. One of the greatest benefits of building a custom home is the ability to plan ahead — to design for today and what might come next.
At Prime 1 Builders, we encourage our clients to prioritize the upgrades that matter most, especially the ones you can’t easily change later. That often means investing in what’s “behind the walls”: the infrastructure that supports your home’s performance, comfort, and future adaptability. Smart home features fall into that category — even if you don’t plan to use them right away.
NOTE: We don’t install smart systems ourselves, but we work closely with trusted technology professionals to make sure your home is ready for whatever level of automation or tech integration you may want.
Focus on the Framework: Infrastructure Over Gadgets
It’s tempting to think of smart home technology in terms of devices — thermostats, speakers, voice assistants. But the real value lies in designing a home that’s equipped to support those tools, now or later.
That’s why we often advise clients to think beyond finishes and invest in things like:
- Additional conduit runs for future wiring.
- Upgraded electrical panels with room to expand.
- Pre-wiring for speakers, security systems, and exterior cameras.
- Zoned HVAC systems that work with smart thermostats.
- A dedicated line for EV charging — even if you don’t drive one yet.
These types of upgrades may not be flashy, but they give you more flexibility over the life of your home, and they’re much harder (and more expensive) to retrofit later.
Smart Features Worth Considering
When you’re designing your custom home, here are some of the most common features clients ask us to help them plan for:
1. EV Charging Stations
As electric vehicles become more common, a dedicated charging outlet in the garage is a smart investment. It’s a relatively simple upgrade during construction, and one of the most requested features we include behind the walls.
We included an EV charging station in this award-winning garage build in Pittsburgh’s Point Breeze neighborhood — just one example of how we help homeowners design for long-term convenience, even if they don’t drive an EV yet. When you plan ahead, your home is ready when the time comes.
2. Smart Thermostats
Easy to use and great for energy savings, smart thermostats allow homeowners to control temperatures by zone, schedule, or even remotely. We often design HVAC layouts with this kind of zoning in mind, which improves comfort and long-term performance.
3. Lighting and Shade Control
Automated lighting and motorized shades aren’t just about convenience — they can also enhance security, reduce energy use, and improve sleep. We can work with your technology professional to pre-wire key rooms or windows, even if you plan to install the systems later.
4. Security and Surveillance
We’re seeing an increasing number of clients request pre-wiring for exterior cameras, smart locks, and doorbell cameras. It keeps your home’s exterior clean and ensures seamless integration if you decide to add these features after move-in.
5. Whole-Home Audio
While Bluetooth speakers work well for many, some clients still prefer built-in audio systems, especially those who entertain frequently or want a clean aesthetic. In-ceiling or in-wall speakers offer superior sound quality and centralized control across multiple rooms. Planning for this during construction avoids patchwork solutions later.
Remember: You don’t have to install every system right away — but pre-wiring and planning during construction gives you the option to add smart features as your needs evolve.
Related Reading: Smart Home Options for Your Custom Build
You Don’t Have to Be Tech-Savvy to Benefit from Smart Design
Many of our clients don’t consider themselves “tech people.” And that’s fine — the goal isn’t to build a house full of gadgets. It’s to create a home that gives you options.
Designing a custom home is about creating a space that fits your life now and in the future. You may not want every feature today, but planning ahead saves money, prevents disruption, and increases your home’s long-term value.
And for those who aren’t sure where to begin, that’s where our team comes in. We guide you through what’s worth investing in, based on how you live, what you prioritize, and what will offer the most benefit over time.
Final Thoughts: Build for the Way You Want to Live
Smart doesn’t have to mean complicated. A future-ready home is about comfort, convenience, and having choices.
By focusing on smart infrastructure — the behind-the-walls upgrades that make a real difference — you set your home up for success no matter what technology comes next. Whether you want a fully integrated smart home or simply want to keep your options open, we can help you design a custom home that grows with you.
Thinking about building a home tailored to the way you live — with room to grow? Let’s start a conversation.
