The Journal — Read Before You Renovate
Materials, budgets, upkeep — the lessons we've learned, written down.
79 articles
Home Automation Near Me: How to Plan a Whole-House System
Looking for home automation near me? Learn how a professional integrator designs...
Aeotec Smart Home Hub: Why It Belongs in Your Renovation Plan
Thinking about building or renovating? Here's how the Aeotec Smart Home Hub fits...
The Best Smart Home Hubs for a Renovation: What to Choose Before the Drywall Goes Up
Compare the best smart home hubs for a new build or renovation. See how DIY plat...
What a Smart Home Manager Really Does in a Custom Build
What a smart home manager does for lighting, climate, shades, security, and audi...
Home Control Hubs: The One Decision That Makes or Breaks Your Smart Home
Home control hubs are the nervous system of a smart home. Learn to choose the ri...
Home Hub Smart Home: Designing One Brain for Your Whole House
Design a home hub smart home that actually works. A control system guide from an...
The Real Role of a Smart Home Hub in a Custom Build
A smart home hub is the central brain your next renovation needs. Learn what it ...
What Is a Smart Home?
What is a smart home? Learn how connected lighting, climate, security, and audio...
Smart Home News: What Matters Now for Your Next Build
Smart home news for homeowners: the real updates on Matter, energy management, a...
Smart Home Devices That Actually Work as One System
Smart home devices can feel like a mess of apps and hubs. Here's how to plan lig...
Smart Home Automation: What to Plan Before You Build
Smart home automation starts with planning, not products. Learn what to wire bef...
Why Most Smart Homes Fail — and It's Never the Technology
The hardware works. That's rarely the problem. In 200 Los Angeles homes, I've se...