The smart home industry is rapidly evolving, and as a result, customer needs and expectations are constantly shifting. As smart home professionals, it's crucial to stay ahead of the curve by keeping up with the latest trends and technologies to provide top-notch service to our customers. According to the CEDIA members in our UK Market Study 2023, the following trends are expected to rise to the forefront over the coming year:
The modern home is no longer just a physical space, but a dynamic and responsive environment that seamlessly integrates work, leisure, and family life. As a result, the smart home industry has shifted from a product-centric approach to human-centered design, focusing on creating an ecosystem that caters to diverse needs and mirrors homeowners' values. With the top technology trends for 2024 identified by CEDIA, the global authority on smart home tech, homeowners can expect innovative solutions that enhance their quality of life, from work-from-home capabilities to energy-efficient solutions.
The lighting/shading category is expected to experience significant growth in UK market, with projected growth rate of 34%. This trend is driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient and smart building solutions. For example, users are installing smart shades, wireless lighting control systems, and LED lighting solutions. According to market data, Lutron was the top brand used in this category, with its innovative products and solutions providing users with greater control, flexibility, and energy efficiency. To capitalise on this trend, businesses should focus on building a strong reputation and developing skills in this area to establish themselves as experts in the field and attract more customers seeking smart building solutions. By doing so, they can not only increase their market share but also differentiate themselves from competitors and drive long-term growth.
The home cinema and media room market is poised for significant growth in the UK with an expected 36% increase over the next 12 months. This surge in demand is driven by the rise of smart homes, increased consumer interest in immersive entertainment experiences, and the desire for comfortable, luxurious spaces to relax and socialize. These installations typically include state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, acoustic design, and smart home integration. For installers looking to capitalise on this trend, the Home Cinema Design course can provide the expertise needed to deliver high-quality installations that meet clients' evolving expectations.
The lighting control systems market is poised for significant growth, with the UK expected to see a 28% increase. This surge in demand is driven by the increasing adoption of smart homes and buildings, as well as the need for energy efficiency and cost savings. One example of a project that users are installing in this category is high-end lighting system that can be controlled and automated remotely. For those without expertise in lighting design, I highly recommend taking a course to learn the fundamentals of lighting design, including principles of light and colour, lighting levels, and fixture selection. Notably, Lutron was the top brand used in this category, making it essential for businesses to be aware of their products and consider installation in their own projects.
The demand for smart security systems is poised to experience a significant surge, with UK members anticipating a 29% growth in customers undertaking projects in this area. This upward trend is driven by the increasing need for homeowners and businesses to stay one step ahead of potential security threats. Among the various projects, home surveillance and alarm/intruder detection systems are emerging as top categories within the security systems sector. As customers seek to safeguard their properties and assets, they are investing in advanced technologies such as IP cameras, motion sensors, and smart doorbells that can be integrated with their smartphones and other devices. This shift towards smart security solutions is expected to continue, with customers demanding more sophisticated and effective ways to protect their homes and businesses from potential risks.
The UK's outdoor A/V systems market is expected to experience significant growth, with 34% of installers reporting they regularly install such systems. This trend mirrors the US market, where outdoor A/V installations have already gained popularity. A typical project for outdoor A/V systems might include installing a high-quality sound system in a backyard or garden, complete with waterproof speakers and a control system that can be accessed remotely through a smartphone app. This allows homeowners to enjoy their favorite music or watch movies outdoors while creating a unique and immersive entertainment experience.
