Problem
Home automation users, like myself, are confronted with a sea of apps and walled-off ecosystems. Each device lives in its own world of design, features and functionality. Devices don't talk to each other, resulting in a dumb rather than smart home.
Solution
Running off a Raspberry Pi 5, I installed Home Assistant, an open source endlessly configurable home automation software with integrations for every type of smart home product, regardless of manufacturer.
Bespoke automations allow triggers any device from any controller.
When our Apple TV goes into 'play' it triggers the curtains to close and the lights to turn to the TV scene.
Our motion sensor now considers how much daylight there is and whether other lights are on before deciding to trigger the lights it controls.
Our Google Nest system can now be triggered by us arriving or departing the home. We can also set our phone alarm as a trigger to turn off the heat or cooling in our bedroom.
Results
Endless opportunity
My home automation system is ready for any possible add-on that I might be interested in.
Having barely scratched the surface so far, the system gives me the ability to make more intricate automations.
Product choices for our future purchases are much wider. We are not tied into any single ecosystem.
With few restrictions, the sky is the limit!