Advice Needed

[hi2shy]

Hi!!

I've been reading through quite a few posts and there is a ton of useful information here. I'm trying to find a guide or get some ideas from some of you on how I could possibly use home automation in my home. I am just waiting for planning permission which would mean I can totally gut the house, redo the wiring and everything.

I was thinking this would be the best time to plan some home automation ideas. At present, I am completely open to ideas and have not set a budget yet as it depends on how much The Boss spends on the new kitchen and bathroom. I might not end up with any money left thinking about it!!

TIA

[crestron boy]

lighting is probably the easyiest route into home automation. You could put security cams in and a door entry system but it depends on your area. HVAC is another one but you'd have to put new thermostats and other stuff in. You could also put in a multi room audio/video system

it depends on your budget really

[sirroundsound]

Keep in mind, with the technology available, Home Automation can be as simple as walking in the front door pressing a button on a keypad or touch screen and having a nice preset lighting scene come on.
Or it could be the ability for the house to operate like someone is home, even while your in the Bahamas. Lights follow a pattern based on your useage, irrigation systems come on automatically, but they first check and know if it has rained recently. While your away you would also have the ability to check cameras, unlock doors for service persons, disarm the alarm system, and put everything back after the workmen have finished.
Other things like shades and draperys can be controlled, and automated based on time of day events.
HVAC systems, most already have some form of programable thermostats, but there are systems that can give you far more detailed displays allowing for much better control settings.
Pools. spas, hottubs, or jaccuzies all have some form of control that can be integrated into a home automation system.
Gates and intercoms. Someone rings the gate or front door, the music lowers, you either go to the touchscreen on the wall or pick up the closest telephone to answer them, a push of a couple of buttons and the gates(or front door) open to let your guests in. This can go a step further, someone rings the door and the camera is displayed on touchscreens or TV's throughout the house.
Basically if something is controllable, it is likely possible to integrate it into a home automation system. It just comes down to what it costs to do, and what its's worth to do.