The concept of ‘smart’ must be blended in the soul of a smart city. Each building block should be placed with this concept at the heart of it, building blocks that lead to smart homes being created to fulfil the goal of a smart city. ... Smart homes must include home networking and monitoring systems. A link between systems and devices such as lighting, air conditioners, phones, security cameras, audio-video systems, computers and refrigerators are all essential features of a smart home. A number of innovations are being infused in building homes that are friendly for all age groups.

At the heart of it, security is one of the biggest reasons why smart homes are being demanded by buyers. Residents want to feel secure about their property, valuables and belongings that often have an intangible emotional connect with individuals. Projects are now installing cameras with smarter analytics, while being vandal proof with motion sensors. Thermal cameras with high definition motion sensors and facial recognition software helps aid residents keep their homes secure. Cameras are also connected to the internet, which allow residents to view their property from any place on this globe with the help of a simple login.

Smart homes also have the capability to reduce a carbon footprint of a property. Technologies that help conserve power through lighting, elevators and other common amenities help make a project environmentally sustainable, while helping residents save money. Other sustainable features in projects include rainwater harvesting systems, sewage treatment systems and organic waste convertors to help enable smart homes to be eco-friendly as well.

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Smart cities need to be constituted of several self-sustained, automated mechanisms that push the boundaries of existing technologies available in cities and homes. We are at the cusp of implementing several technologies to make our cities smart, however, our homes must catch up and there are a number of projects that are making this dream become a reality.