Living on the edge: high tech homes

HIGH technology in the home used to be highly gimmicky, very difficult to use and of relatively little real value.

However, Griffiths estate agents of Portugal claim the technology has now evolved to the stage where it’s become more of an issue in terms of saving energy, increasing security and adding value to a home.

For example, Griffiths’ new villas at Porto de Mós in Lagos, Western Algarve, now come with a well-planned, integrated and intelligent home system.

All electrical outlets are routed via sensors which can be programmed to optimise lighting, heating and cooling, and can be controlled by a central switchboard.

All functions can also be remotely controlled by telephone or the internet — an important feature for foreign owners.

Griffiths says the system provides extra comfort, convenience and peace of mind for owners, with obvious benefits for those who are absent, elderly or have limited mobility.

The agent also claims the technology allows people to live more independently than before.

The sensors monitor and optimise the home environment and can be set to activate lighting at low levels, steadily increasing as night falls.

Meanwhile, sensor lights can be activated at night, avoiding the need to fumble for switches (although this mightn’t be the ultimate panacea for those who burn the midnight oil at the local taverna and want to return home anonymously in the wee hours of the morning).

Heating and air conditioning can also be programmed to maintain optimum conditions, avoiding energy wastage (wait until Dick Roche hears about that — we’ll all be installing the technology).

The sensors can also measure outdoor humidity and activate irrigation systems to water plants and lawns while the owners are away.

The villas are equipped with CCTV cameras, movement detectors and instant floodlighting to deter intruders — the same sensors can also detect bathroom floods and gas leaks.

The villas also come with complete ambient sound and two home cinema systems.

What more could you ask for?

Villa prices start from €1.3 million.

For further information, phone Griffiths estate agents on 00351 282 760 416 or log on to www.johndgriffiths.com