For home HVAC systems, heat pumps seem to be the way of the future. When compared to electric heating they can be three to four times more efficient, and they …read more

Solar air heating is among the most cost-effective applications of solar thermal energy. These systems are used for space heating and preheating fresh air for ventilation, typically using glazed or unglazed perforated solar collectors. The collectors draw in outside air, heat it using solar energy, and then distribute it through ductwork to meet building heating and fresh air needs. In 2024, Canada led again the world for the at least seventh year in a row in solar air heating adoption. The four key suppliers – Trigo Energies, Conserval Engineering, Matrix Energy, and Aéronergie – reported a combined 26,203 m2 (282,046 ft2) of collector area sold last year. Several of these providers are optimistic about the growing demand. These findings come from the newly released Canadian Solar Thermal Market Survey 2024, commissioned by Natural Resources Canada. Canada is the global leader in solar air heating. The market is driven by a strong network of experienced system suppliers, optimized technologies, and a few small favorable funding programs – especially in the province of Quebec. Architects and developers are increasingly turning to these cost-effective, façade-integrated systems as a practical solution for reducing onsite natural gas consumption. Despite its cold climate, Canada benefits from strong solar potential with solar irradiance in many areas rivaling or even exceeding that of parts of Europe. This makes solar air heating not only viable, but especially valuable in buildings with high fresh air requirements including schools, hospitals, and offices. The projects highlighted in this article showcase the versatility and relevance of solar air heating across a range of building types, from new constructions to retrofits. Figure 1: Preheating air for industrial buildings: 2,750 m2 (29,600 ft2) of Calento SL solar air collectors cover all south-west and south-east facing facades of the FAB3R factory in Trois-Rivières, Quebec. The hourly unitary flow rate is set at 41 m3/m2 or 2.23 cfm/ft2 of collector area, at the lower range because only a limited number of intake fans was close enough to the solar façade to avoid long ventilation ductwork. Photo: Trigo Energies Quebec’s solar air heating boom: the Trigo Energies story Trigo Energies makes almost 90 per cent of its sales in Quebec. “We profit from great subsidies, as solar air systems are supported by several organizations in our province – the electricity utility Hydro Quebec, the gas utility Energir and the Ministry of Natural Resources,” explained Christian Vachon, Vice President Technologies and R&D at Trigo Energies. Trigo Energies currently has nine employees directly involved in planning, engineering and installing solar air heating systems and teams up with several partner contractors to install mostly retrofit projects. “A high degree of engineering is required to fit a solar heating system into an existing factory,” emphasized Vachon. “Knowledge about HVAC engineering is as important as experience with solar thermal and architecture.” One recent Trigo installation is at the FAB3R factory in Trois-Rivières. FAB3R specializes in manufacturing, repairing, and refurbishing large industrial equipment. Its air heating and ventilation system needed urgent renovation because of leakages and discomfort for the workers. “Due to many positive references he had from industries in the area, the owner of FAB3R contacted us,” explained Vachon. “The existence of subsidies helped the client to go for a retrofitting project including solar façade at once instead of fixing the problems one bit at a time.” Approximately 50 per cent of the investment costs for both the solar air heating and the renovation of the indoor ventilation system were covered by grants and subsidies. FAB3R profited from an Energir grant targeted at solar preheating, plus an investment subsidy from the Government of Quebec’s EcoPerformance Programme.   Blue or black, but always efficient: the advanced absorber coating In October 2024, the majority of the new 2,750 m² (29,600 ft2) solar façade at FAB3R began operation (see figure 1). According to Vachon, the system is expected to cover approximately 13 per cent of the factory’s annual heating demand, which is otherwise met by natural gas. Trigo Energies equipped the façade with its high-performance Calento SL collectors, featuring a notable innovation: a selective, low-emissivity coating that withstands outdoor conditions. Introduced by Trigo in 2019 and manufactured by Almeco Group from Italy, this advanced coating is engineered to maximize solar absorption while minimizing heat loss via infrared emission, enhancing the overall efficiency of the system. The high efficiency coating is now standard in Trigo’s air heating systems. According to the manufacturer, the improved collector design shows a 25 to 35 per cent increase in yield over the former generation of solar air collectors with black paint. Testing conducted at Queen’s University confirms this performance advantage. Researchers measured the performance of transpired solar air collectors both with and without a selective coating, mounted side-by-side on a south-facing vertical wall. The results showed that the collectors with the selective coating produced 1.3 to 1.5 times more energy than those without it. In 2024, the monitoring results were jointly published by Queen’s University and Canmat Energy in a paper titled Performance Comparison of a Transpired Air Solar Collector with Low-E Surface Coating. Selective coating, also used on other solar thermal technologies including glazed flat plate or vacuum tube collectors, has a distinctive blue color. Trigo customers can, however, choose between blue and black finishes. “By going from the normal blue selective coating to black selective coating, which Almeco is specially producing for Trigo, we lose about 1 per cent in solar efficiency,” explained Vachon. Figure 2: Building-integrated solar air heating façade with MatrixAir collectors at the firehall building in Mont Saint Hilaire, south of Montreal. The 190 m2 (2,045 ft2) south-facing wall preheats the fresh air, reducing natural gas consumption by 18 per cent compared to the conventional make-up system. Architect: Leclerc Architecture. Photo: Matrix Energy Matrix Energy: collaborating with architects and engineers in new builds The key target customer group of Matrix Energy are public buildings – mainly new construction. “Since the pandemic, schools are more conscious about fresh air, and solar preheating of the incoming fresh air has a positive impact over the entire school year,” noted Brian Wilkinson, President of Matrix Energy. Matrix Energy supplies systems across Canada, working with local partners to source and process the metal sheets used in their MatrixAir collectors. These metal sheets are perforated and then formed into architectural cladding profiles. The company exclusively offers unglazed, single-stage collectors, citing fire safety concerns associated with polymeric covers. “We have strong relationships with many architects and engineers who appreciate the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of transpired solar air heating systems,” said President Brian Wilkinson, describing the company’s sales approach. “Matrix handles system design and supplies the necessary materials, while installation is carried out by specialized cladding and HVAC contractors overseen by on-site architects and engineers,” Wilkinson added. Finding the right flow: the importance of unitary airflow rates One of the key design factors in solar air heating systems is the amount of air that passes through each square meter of the perforated metal absorber,  known as the unitary airflow rate. The principle is straightforward: higher airflow rates deliver more total heat to the building, while lower flow rates result in higher outlet air temperatures. Striking the right balance between air volume and temperature gain is essential for efficient system performance. For unglazed collectors mounted on building façades, typical hourly flow rates should range between 120 and 170 (m3/h/m2), or 6.6 to 9.4 cfm/ft2. However, Wilkinson suggests that an hourly airflow rate of around 130 m³/h/m² (7.2 cfm/ft2) offers the best cost-benefit balance for building owners. If the airflow is lower, the system will deliver higher air temperatures, but it would then need a much larger collector area to achieve the same air volume and optimum performance, he explained. It’s also crucial for the flow rate to overcome external wind pressure. As wind passes over the absorber, air flow through the collector’s perforations is reduced, resulting in heat losses to the environment. This effect becomes even more pronounced in taller buildings, where wind exposure is greater. To ensure the system performs well even in these conditions, higher hourly airflow rates typically between 150 and 170 m³/m² (8.3 to 9.4 cfm/ft2)  are necessary. Figure 3: One of three apartment blocks of the Maple House in Toronto’s Canary District. Around 160 m2 (1,722 ft2) of SolarWall collectors clad the two-storey mechanical penthouse on the roof. The rental flats have been occupied since the beginning of 2024. Collaborators: architects-Alliance, Claude Cormier et Associés, Thornton Tomasetti, RWDI, Cole Engineering, DesignAgency, MVShore, BA Group, EllisDon. Photo: Conserval Engineering Solar air heating systems support LEED-certified building designs Solar air collectors are also well-suited for use in multi-unit residential buildings. A prime example is the Canary District in Toronto (see Figure 3), where single-stage SolarWall collectors from Conserval Engineering have been installed on several MURBs to clad the mechanical penthouses. “These penthouses are an ideal location for our air heating collectors, as they contain the make-up air units that supply corridor ventilation throughout the building,” explained Victoria Hollick, Vice President of Conserval Engineering. “The walls are typically finished with metal façades, which can be seamlessly replaced with a SolarWall system – maintaining the architectural language without disruption.” To date, nine solar air heating systems have been commissioned in the Canary District, covering a total collector area of over 1,000 m² (10,764 ft2). “Our customers have many motivations to integrate SolarWall technology into their new construction or retrofit projects, either carbon reduction, ESG, or green building certification targets,” explained Hollick. The use of solar air collectors in the Canary District was proposed by architects from the Danish firm Cobe. The black-colored SolarWall system preheats incoming air before it is distributed to the building’s corridors and common areas, reducing reliance on natural gas heating and supporting the pursuit of LEED Gold certification. Hollick estimates the amount of gas saved between 10 to 20 per cent of the total heating load for the corridor ventilation of the multi-unit residential buildings. Additional energy-saving strategies include a 50/50 window-to-wall ratio with high-performance glazing, green roofs, high-efficiency mechanical systems, LED lighting, and Energy Star-certified appliances. The ideal orientation for a SolarWall system is due south. However, the systems can be built at any orientation up to 90° east and west, explained Hollick. A SolarWall at 90° would have approximately 60 per cent of the energy production of the same area facing south.Canada’s expertise in solar air heating continues to set a global benchmark, driven by supporting R&D, by innovative technologies, strategic partnerships, and a growing portfolio of high-impact projects. With strong policy support and proven performance, solar air heating is poised to play a key role in the country’s energy-efficient building future. Figure 4: Claude-Bechard Building in Quebec is a showcase project for sustainable architecture with a 72 m2 (775 ft2) Lubi solar air heating wall from Aéronergie. It serves as a regional administrative center. Architectural firm: Goulet et Lebel Architectes. Photo: Art Massif Bärbel Epp is the general manager of the German Agency solrico, whose focus is on solar market research and international communication. The post Op-ed: Canada’s leadership in solar air heating—Innovation and flagship projects appeared first on Canadian Architect.

While updating, upgrading, and reimagining your home can transform it into your dream home, the logistics involved can be daunting, even if you have a general contractor managing the project for you. One of the biggest challenges is setting your budget—unless you have an unlimited budget (lucky you!), determining what a home renovation will involve based on what you can afford is a key aspect of your plan.It’s also one of the most confusing. When budgeting reality bumps up against your dream home fantasy, figuring out what to remove from the project can be difficult because of the emotional aspects involved—everything can seem equally necessary when you’re imagining your future life in the home. In order to pare things down in a coherent and rational way, take a page from business school experts and use the time-tested MoSCoW Method.What is the MoSCoW method?The MoSCoW method was innovated by software developer Dai Clegg in the 1990s as a way to prioritize components of a project in order to stay on schedule and within budget. Although it was initially envisioned as a software development tool (and more widely as a tool for managing business projects in general), it’s malleable enough that it can be ideal for varied circumstances—including getting control of a home renovation project.The method involves breaking all the aspects of your project into four buckets, represented by the letters M, S, C, and W (the Os are just there to make the name more readable). The categories are:Must-haves. These are aspects of the project that are non-negotiable and mandatory.Should-haves. These are parts of the project that aren’t absolutely necessary, but are relatively important.Could-haves. These are smaller details that can easily be removed from the project or added in later if budget allows.Won’t haves. These are aspects of the project that aren’t under consideration at all.The simplicity of the MoSCoW method is its main strength—it’s easy to whip your home reno budget into shape in a short time by plopping everything into the relevant bucket.Using MoSCoW to plan a home renovation projectWhen you’re planning out your home renovation, start dropping each aspect into a bucket as you go:Things that absolutely have to be done are Must Haves. For example, if part of your renovation is replacing a leaking roof, that’s a Must Have—you have no choice, so that cost is baked into your budget from the get-go.Major components of the project that aren’t absolutely necessary fall into the Should Have bucket. If your old hardwood floors are worn but serviceable, replacing them is a big part of what you want to get out of the renovation—but you could leave them in place, or try to refinish them instead of replacing them. These would be the last parts of your project that you remove or downgrade.Grace notes and luxuries go into the Could Have bucket and held there pending how the budget plays out. For example, maybe you’d like your new flooring to have radiant heating. That’s nice, but not an absolute necessity. If money opens up later in the planning, you can toss it in.Finally, there’s the Won’t Have bucket. This might seem like an unnecessary step, since anything not already sorted into a bucket could be considered a Won’t Have. But the exercise of specifically labeling it as a Won’t Have is useful because it brings clarity to your priorities. If you find more budget later, you’ve already prioritized the Could Haves as more deserving of rescue. Won’t Haves aren’t necessarily things you’ll never do—they’re just things you’re not doing now. For example, maybe your HVAC system is a little old and you’re thinking it will need to be replaced in the next few years—but not at this moment, because you’re spending your money on all these other projects. So you put that into the Won’t Have bucket because you know you’ll be returning to it in the future.Once you’ve done an initial categorization of your home renovation, you can start crunching numbers to see if changes are necessary or desired. Maybe you decide, on reflection, that a Should Have is really a Must Have, or vice versa. And if your budget can’t deliver on every priority, you can shift some things into the Could Have bucket and hold them in reserve for the future.Any successful home renovation is as much about planning and prioritization as it is about budget and schedule management, and the MoSCoW Method can help ensure your project is on track before anyone touches a power tool.

On Designing National Pavilions: Power and Identity at Universal ExhibitionsSave this picture!Czech Pavilion Expo 2025 Osaka / Apropos Architects Image © boysplayniceWhat can a pavilion’s architecture reveal about its country? At major World Expos, national pavilions are designed to answer this question, transforming into spaces laden with symbolism. Though temporary, these structures are rich in meaning, functioning as architectural expressions of political identity. Their forms and materials encapsulate national ambitions. Expo Osaka 2025, the latest chapter in this ongoing narrative, showcases how nations increasingly use built space to construct global images of themselves—sustainable, technological, culturally distinct, and geopolitically relevant. Save this picture!Over the decades, these pavilions have evolved into meticulously curated narratives where architecture, politics, and culture intersect to shape national identity. At Osaka 2025, this symbolic and diplomatic function becomes even more pronounced. Pavilions communicate not only who a nation is, but who it aspires to be. The environmental agenda, for example, has become a compelling vector of soft power. Japan’s pavilion exemplifies this shift, employing local wood, parametric design, and natural ventilation not just for function, but as metaphors of circularity and harmony with nature.Save this picture!Meanwhile, countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are embracing immersive technologies—augmented reality, responsive facades, and AI—to reframe their narratives. No longer defined solely by oil economies, they seek to position themselves as innovation-driven futurescapes. In this context, national identity is staged like a multisensory installation. Materials, sounds, aromas, lighting, and spatial choreography become tools for storytelling—none of them neutral, all of them charged with intent. Related Article Are World's Fairs a Thing of the Past? The Role that Architecture Played on One of History's Biggest Stages Architecture as a Political StatementPavilions transcend cultural or technological display to become instruments of political messaging. Architectural choices convey nuanced—or at times overt—signals about values, ambitions, and worldviews. Denmark’s Expo 2020 Dubai pavilion, with open ramps and fluid circulation, subtly suggests democratic transparency and inclusion, while Russia’s monumental spiral structure evokes nationalism and technological command. Here, architecture becomes a codified discourse: every curve, void, and surface reads like a political sign.Save this picture!This language continues at Osaka 2025. Israel’s pavilion, inspired by the ecological resilience of deserts, presents a narrative of innovation and perseverance amid adversity—an architectural response to both climate challenges and regional geopolitics. Bahrain’s contribution, by Lina Ghotmeh Architecture, focuses on the adaptability of maritime cultures. South Korea’s high-tech, futuristic pavilion reinforces its position as a rising digital powerhouse.In some instances, however, absence speaks just as loudly. In previous editions, countries like North Korea and Syria have boycotted the Expo as a form of political protest. These silent gestures are part of the same strategic vocabulary, where presence, form, and even withdrawal shape the geopolitical stage set by architecture.Save this picture!Sustainability on DisplayAmid the global climate crisis, national pavilions have also become key arenas for environmental diplomacy. Sustainability—once a peripheral concern—is now central to the architectural narrative of Expos. It’s no longer only about meeting green standards, but about crafting a spatial language that embodies ecological responsibility. This shift also challenges the very notion of ephemerality: where temporariness once defined these structures, reuse, intelligent disassembly, and material reintegration now drive their conception.This ecological turn is particularly evident at Expo Osaka 2025. With the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” the event encourages models of regenerative, cooperative, and resilient living. Sweden’s and Germany’s pavilions are designed for a second life, to be repurposed as schools or community centers. The U.S. pavilion, designed by Trahan Architects, incorporates steel, fabric, and HVAC components repurposed from Tokyo 2020 Olympics structures—materials slated for further reuse across Japan. In this framework, the Expo becomes a laboratory of environmental geopolitics, where sustainability itself is a form of soft power.Save this picture!Technological Spectacle as a National StrategyIn contemporary Universal Exhibitions, technology is no longer displayed as an end in itself but has become a narrative and experiential medium. Immersive installations, sensory interfaces, and AI-driven storytelling transform pavilions into interactive ecosystems, where visitors are both spectators and agents. This shift signals a significant change: it is no longer just about showcasing innovation, but about embedding technology into the dramaturgy of space. Architecture, in this context, ceases to be a static backdrop and merges with experience design, dissolving the boundaries between the built and the digital. Moreover, the way each country orchestrates these elements reveals its ability to envision desirable futures—and to position itself as a protagonist in the global technological transformation.Save this picture!At Expo Osaka 2025, this race for technological affirmation takes clear shape in pavilions such as that of the United Arab Emirates, which offers an interactive journey through environments responsive to human presence, narrative artificial intelligence, and real-time sensors that react to visitors’ actions—demonstrating a sophisticated technical mastery with implications across multiple spheres. In a similar vein, the Uzbekistan Pavilion stands out with an exhibition focused on empowerment, highlighting the country’s openness to innovation and its commitment to preparing for the future.Yet this immersion presents a growing tension: how to balance technological spectacle with architectural integrity. In some cases, architecture risks being overshadowed by its digital overlay, losing spatial coherence. The most compelling pavilions are those that fuse form, function, and innovation into a seamless whole, where technology becomes not an add-on, but an intrinsic architectural language.Save this picture!Intercultural Collaborations: The True LegacyWhile Universal Exhibitions are organized around national representation, they have also emerged as vital platforms for cultural exchange. Increasingly, national pavilions are designed by multicultural teams, resulting in more nuanced, inclusive, and inventive expressions of identity, not as a fixed essence, but as something fluid and co-constructed.Save this picture!At Osaka 2025, this collaborative ethos is exemplified by pavilions such as Switzerland’s, designed by an international team, and Indonesia’s, which brings together local architects and foreign consultants. These collaborations offer more than design efficiency—they signal gestures of quiet diplomacy. In a climate of resurgent nationalism, such exchanges underscore that innovation thrives through openness and dialogue. Each pavilion becomes a space of mutual learning, expanding the very meaning of global belonging.Save this picture!Ultimately, the lasting value of Expos may not lie in reinforcing national brands, but in fostering encounters—shared spaces where ideas, technologies, and cultures converge to respond to urgent global challenges. As architect Manuel Herz, designer of the Swiss Pavilion, puts it: “In a moment of global tension, every possibility for us to physically meet in a shared space and celebrate something that can still be described as a cosmopolitan spirit needs to be valued and utilized.” Amid so many crises, pavilions remind us that architecture is more than shelter or style—it is a vessel for connection, a space for learning, and a rehearsal for futures we must build together.We invite you to check out ArchDaily's comprehensive coverage of the Expo Osaka 2025. Image gallerySee allShow less About this authorCamilla GhisleniAuthor••• Cite: Ghisleni, Camilla. "On Designing National Pavilions: Power and Identity at Universal Exhibitions" [Projetando Pavilhões Nacionais: Poder e Identidade nas Exposições Universais] 30 May 2025. ArchDaily. (Trans. Simões, Diogo) Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1030539/on-designing-national-pavilions-power-and-identity-at-universal-exhibitions&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!想浏览ArchDaily中国吗?是否 You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

© Sergey Omelchenko via Unsplash Older buildings possess irreplaceable quality, architectural value, and history that new buildings may lack. However, they are often neglected due to perceived renovation costs or structural integrity. With the right plan, these buildings can be transformed into valuable investments. Below are seven of the best strategies for making good investments in aging buildings. 1. Assess Structural Stability Thoroughly Even if you have not yet enrolled in a project, it is critical to understand the building’s structural integrity. Have a structural inspector or engineer examine any major foundation issues, load wall defects, roof, or plumbing issues. The report will tell you how much you need to repair and the estimated renovation cost. Consider also a building’s listings as historic, zoning codes, and compliance. There will be buildings under preservation or heritage statutes, which can be very restrictive in what can or cannot be modified. Knowing about such constraints upfront can allow you to plan better and spend your budget more appropriately. 2. Consider Adaptive Reuse This is an innovative way to transform existing building structures, such as old churches, schools, or textile mills, into thriving business offices or community spaces. The adaptive reuse supports the concept of sustainable architecture. Besides preserving the uniqueness of a building, it provides several economic and environmental advantages. Innovative reuse of older buildings, like redeveloping an aging warehouse as a hip loft space or an unused church as a shared workplace. This will tap into marketplace niches, reinterpret former designs for new purposes, and reduce demolition waste expense since existing infrastructure can be used. It will also likely be tax-credit qualified in most instances, making it a worthwhile investment. 3. Go Smart with Technology Integration With smart thermostats, lights, security systems, and energy monitoring systems included, the performance and appeal of your newly renovated building can be significantly enhanced. Upgrades help consumers be more practical, increase operational efficiency, lower energy expenses, and provide the high-tech benefit that distinguishes your building. Upscale renters willing to pay more for smart living experiences can also find smart features appealing. One example is the remote management features, such as the HVAC, which add more functionality to a property. Smart locks at the entry points also increase safety levels. 4. Going Green to Draw Modern Tenants © Pedro Miguel Aires via Unsplash Green restoration might give the structure more appeal to environmentally sensitive residents and lower future energy bills. When renters choose to live or rent, sustainability becomes a consideration, so green facilities are a significant advantage.  Use green materials, including insulation, and install energy-efficient appliances. Having those properties green-certified by LEED or ENERGY STAR will make those buildings even more marketable. Not only does that give your project respectability, but it will also make you a beneficiary of government incentives. 5. Mixed-Use and Flexible Occupancy Design Flexible, mixed-use design is one way to de-risk revenues and maximize rental yield. Split your building into office suites, co-living, pop-up event spaces, and retail storefronts. Modular furniture, movable partitions, and plug-and-play utility infrastructure facilitate flexible build-outs. It helps tenants arrange space to fit their needs, providing more opportunities. For example, ground floor cafe space can generate spill-over foot traffic for upstairs shared office tenants, and weekend community workshops that generate buzz and additional revenues. Diversification minimizes vacancy risk and allows you to re-mix tenants based on shifting market demand. 6. Emphasize Unique Architectural Elements Older homes possess unique design elements not found in new homes, like arched windows, detailing, ornamentation, or exposed brick. Rather than concealing these elements, emphasize them as part of restoring your property. This will make interested individuals see the building as one with great sentimental value, especially when you capture the historic relevance of the design. Emphasizing a property’s unique architectural elements can differentiate your property from the rest in an oversaturated housing market. The architectural elements give a property character and individuality that cannot be achieved in newer homes. 7. Involve the Community and Build Local Support Engaging residents, owners, and heritage organizations early in the conversion process can create goodwill among residents and ownership about the project’s success. Community support is especially helpful in getting permits, zoning variances, or adjustments because local backing carries much weight with city planning measures. Open a forum to provide regular social media updates or even a poll to engage people and their input to inform the stakeholders and become informed themselves in the process. If people feel heard and considered, they are more apt to be ambassadors for your work and spread good word-of-mouth. Endnote Transforming aging buildings into successful investments requires vision, planning, and respect for their heritage. Revealing structural integrity, location, sustainability, and visionary reuse, buried value in older structures can be unleashed. You need to plan the project well and work closely with competent contractors who will make the re-creation excellent. Adaptive Reuse by ArchEyes Team Leave a comment

Save this picture!Algae Curtain / EcoLogicStudio. Image © ecoLogicStudio"The limits of our design language are the limits of our design thinking". Patrik Schumacher's statement subtly hints at a shift occurring in the built environment, moving beyond technological integration to embrace intelligence in the spaces and cities we occupy. The future proposes a possibility of buildings serving functions beyond housing human activity to actively participate in shaping urban life.The architecture profession has long been enamored with "smart" buildings - structures that collect and process data through sensor networks and automated systems. Smart cities were heralded to improve quality of life as well as the sustainability and efficiency of city operations using technology. While smart buildings and cities are still at a far reach, these advancements only mark the beginning of a much more impactful application of technology in the built environment. Being smart is about collecting data. Being intelligent is about interpreting that data and acting autonomously upon it. Save this picture!The next generation of intelligent buildings will focus on both externalities and the integration of advanced interior systems to improve energy efficiency, sustainability, and security. Exterior innovations like walls with rotatable units that automatically respond to real-time environmental data, optimizing ventilation and insulation without human intervention are one application. Related Article The Future of Work: Sentient Workplaces for Employee Wellbeing Kinetic architectural elements, integrated with artificial intelligence, create responsive exteriors that breathe and adapt. Networked photovoltaic glass systems may share surplus energy across buildings, establishing efficient microgrids that transform individual structures into nodes within larger urban systems.Interior spaces are experiencing a similar evolution through platforms like Honeywell's Advance Control for Buildings, which integrates cybersecurity, accelerated network speeds, and autonomous decision-making capabilities. Such systems simultaneously optimize HVAC, lighting, and security subsystems through real-time adjustments that respond to environmental shifts and occupant behavior patterns. Advanced security incorporates deep learning-powered facial recognition, while sophisticated voice controls distinguish between human commands and background noise with high accuracy.Kas Oosterhuis envisions architecture where building components become senders and receivers of real-time information, creating communicative networks: "People communicate. Buildings communicate. People communicate with people. People communicate with buildings. Buildings communicate with buildings." This swarm architecture represents an open-source, real-time system where all elements participate in continuous information exchange.Save this picture!Save this picture!While these projects are impressive, they also bring critical issues about autonomy and control to light. How much decision-making authority should we delegate to our buildings? Should structures make choices for us or simply offer informed suggestions based on learned patterns?Beyond buildings, intelligent systems can remodel urban management through AI and machine learning applications. Solutions that monitor and predict pedestrian traffic patterns in public spaces are being explored. For instance, Carlo Ratti's collaboration with Google's Sidewalk Labs hints at the possibility of the streetscape seamlessly adapting to people's needs with a prototype of a modular and reconfigurable paving system in Toronto. The Dynamic Street features a series of hexagonal modular pavers which can be picked up and replaced within hours or even minutes in order to swiftly change the function of the road without creating disruptions on the street. Sidewalk Labs also developed technologies like Delve, a machine-learning tool for designing cities, and focused on sustainability through initiatives like Mesa, a building-automation system.Cities are becoming their own sensors at elemental levels, with physical fabric automated to monitor performance and use continuously. Digital skins overlay these material systems, enabling populations to navigate urban complexity in real-time—locating services, finding acquaintances, and identifying transportation options.The implications extend beyond immediate utility. Remote sensing capabilities offer insights into urban growth patterns, long-term usage trends, and global-scale problems that individual real-time operations cannot detect. This creates enormous opportunities for urban design that acknowledges the city as a self-organizing system, moving beyond traditional top-down planning toward bottom-up growth enabled by embedded information systems.Save this picture!Save this picture!While artificial intelligence dominates discussions of intelligent architecture, parallel developments are emerging through non-human biological intelligence. Researchers are discovering the profound capabilities of living organisms - bacteria, fungi, algae - that have evolved sophisticated strategies over millions of years. Micro-organisms possess intelligence that often eludes human comprehension, yet their exceptional properties offer transformative potential for urban design.EcoLogicStudio's work with the H.O.R.T.U.S. series exemplifies this biological turn in intelligent architecture. The acronym—Hydro Organism Responsive To Urban Stimuli—describes photosynthetic sculptures and urban structures that create artificial habitats for cyanobacteria integrated within the built environment. These living systems function not merely as decorative elements but as active metabolic participants, absorbing emissions from building systems while producing biomass and oxygen through photosynthesis. The PhotoSynthetica Tower project, unveiled at Tokyo's Mori Art Museum, materializes this vision as a complex synthetic organism where bacteria, autonomous farming machines, and various forms of animal intelligence become bio-citizens alongside humans. The future of intelligent architecture lies not in replacing human decision-making but in creating sophisticated feedback loops between human and non-human intelligence. The synthesis recognizes that our knowledge remains incomplete in any age, particularly as new developments push us from lifestyles constraining us to single places toward embracing multiple locations and experiences.Save this picture!The built environment's role in emerging technologies extends far beyond operational efficiency or cost savings. Intelligent buildings can serve as active participants in sustainability targets, wellness strategies, and broader urban resilience planning. The possibility of intelligent architecture challenges the industry to expand our design language. The question facing the profession is not whether intelligence will permeate the built environment. Rather, architects must gauge how well-positioned we are to design for this intelligence, manage its implications, and partner with our buildings as collaborators in shaping the human experience.This article is part of the ArchDaily Topics: What Is Future Intelligence?, proudly presented by Gendo, an AI co-pilot for Architects. Our mission at Gendo is to help architects produce concept images 100X faster by focusing on the core of the design process. We have built a cutting-edge AI tool in collaboration with architects from some of the most renowned firms, such as Zaha Hadid, KPF, and David Chipperfield.Every month, we explore a topic in-depth through articles, interviews, news, and architecture projects. We invite you to learn more about our ArchDaily Topics. And, as always, at ArchDaily we welcome the contributions of our readers; if you want to submit an article or project, contact us.

Pictured Above: Designer Annie Anderson's Colonial home in Kansas City.Jump to:Colonial-style homes belong to one of the most recognizable residential architectural styles in the United States. It originated during the European colonization of the Americas in the 17th and 18th centuries—British, Dutch, Spanish, and French settlers brought with them building traditions from their home countries, which were then adapted to suit local climates using local materials. As a result, Colonial-style architecture encompasses various subtypes based on the country of origin and regional adaptations within the U.S.Of course, there are many overlaps between these variations in Colonial-style architecture. In general, Colonial-style homes are most easily recognized for their symmetrical façades, gabled roofs, and closed-concept interiors. While Colonial-style homes have evolved over the centuries—their modern interpretation is the Colonial Revival style—they remain one of the most popular residential architectural styles in the U.S. today. Here's what you need to know about their historical design.Related StoriesKey Features of a Colonial-Style HouseThomas LoofA center hall Colonial home built in 1790 on five acres in Bedford, New York.Most Colonial-style homes share a number of key characteristics.Symmetrical façades: Colonial-style homes most commonly have a balanced, rectangular shape with a centered front door and evenly spaced windows.Two or more stories: Traditional Colonial-style homes are typically two or three stories tall, with living spaces on the first floor and bedrooms on upper floors.Gabled roofs: These homes commonly have gabled roofs with steep pitches.Central chimney or double chimneys: Early Colonial-style homes usually feature a large central chimney, though later variations may have pairs of chimneys, one located on each side of the house.Double-hung windows: Double-hung windows with multiple panes are evenly spaced across the façade of Colonial-style homes. They often, but not always, have shutters.Wood, brick or stone exteriors: Traditional exterior materials include clapboard siding, brick, and stone, depending on regional influences.Minimal embellishments: Colonial-style homes feature simpler design choices, particularly on their exteriors.Types of Colonial HomesColonial-style homes can be found across the U.S., with various regions featuring different adaptations. But the most dominant factor in determining subtypes is the architectural style's country of origin.FOTOGRAFIA INC.//Getty ImagesBritish Colonial: The most common subtype of Colonial-style homes, British Colonial architecture emphasizes symmetry and simplicity. On their exteriors, they often have brick or wood façades, shuttered windows, and central doorways. Interiors are compartmentalized, typically with a central hallway flanked by formal living and dining rooms.Johnrob//Getty ImagesDutch Colonial: Dutch Colonial-style homes are easily identified by their gambrel roofs, which make them look like classic barns. These homes were originally constructed by Dutch settlers in the Northeast and may also feature flared eaves, dormer windows, and broad porches.csfotoimages//Getty ImagesSpanish Colonial: Found primarily in the American Southwest and parts of California, Spanish Colonial-style homes are the most distinctive type of Colonial-style architecture, veering away from East Coast styles. Often a single story and built around a courtyard or patio, they are typically constructed with white stucco walls, red clay tile roofs, and arched entryways.TerryJ//Getty ImagesFrench Colonial: Popular in Louisiana and along the Mississippi River, French Colonial-style homes are known for their square profiles, wide porches, hipped roofs, and high-ceilinged floors.VELEZGREENE//Getty ImagesGeorgian: Georgian Colonial-style homes emphasize proportion and symmetry to a high degree—they will always have perfectly symmetrical façades. Common characteristics include paneled front doors with pilasters, brick exteriors, and dual chimneys. They were most popular during the reign of Britain's first four King Georges, or roughly from the early 18th to early 19th centuries.John Penney//Getty ImagesSaltbox: A subtype of Colonial architecture specific to New England, the saltbox house has two stories in the front and one story in the back. Its most distinctive trait is a long, pitched roof that slopes down from front to back, creating a distinctive asymmetrical profile. Originally developed as a way to add space without constructing a full addition, saltbox houses are usually wood-framed with clapboard siding and often feature a large central chimney.Advantages of Colonial-Style HomesJared KuziaInterior of a Boston Colonial Revival home, designed by Cecilia Casagrande.Colonial-style homes offer numerous benefits that continue to appeal to modern homeowners.Classic curb appeal: Their symmetrical design and timeless style are attractive to many homeowners.Defined spaces: Separate rooms in the closed-concept plan provide privacy and noise reduction, which can be ideal for families or remote work.Easy to expand: The simple rectangular floor plan makes it relatively straightforward to add extensions.Strong resale value: Their enduring appeal and association with tradition often make them desirable in the real estate market.Related StoryDisadvantages of Colonial-Style HousesThough Colonial-style homes are admired for their beauty, they do come with a few drawbacks, depending on personal preferences. Closed-concept layout: If you're interested in open floor plans, a traditional Colonial-style home might not be for you. Plus, some spaces, such as kitchens, may be smaller than you're accustomed to.Multi-floor living: Because Colonial-style homes almost always have multiple floors, they're not ideal for those with decreased mobility.Traditional style: Some might find the very traditional aesthetic of Colonial-style homes to feel boring or cookie-cutter.Renovation costs: Updating a Colonial-style home to modern standards—especially in terms of HVAC, plumbing, or electrical systems—can be costly due to the home's age and structure.Related StoryWhat's the Difference Between Colonial-Style and Colonial Revival Homes?ferrantraite//Getty ImagesWhile Colonial-style and Colonial Revival homes share many similarities, there are important distinctions between the two. Colonial-style homes were built during the 17th and 18th centuries by European settlers in the Americas. Colonial Revival homes, on the other hand, emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a nostalgic reinterpretation of these earlier designs. While Colonial Revival homes mimic the symmetry and styling of historic Colonial architecture, they are often designed with updated amenities, including open floor plans, larger windows, and improved insulation.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

At yesterday’s I/O conference, Google announced plans to start putting its AI chatbot, Gemini, in a variety of different places, including cars. Today, Volvo said it was shoving its way to the front of the line to be the first to receive the new tech.Volvo said it was expanding its preexisting partnership with Google — the Swedish automaker was one of the first to adopt the built-in Android Automotive operating system for its vehicles — to include the integration of Gemini across its model lineup. Drivers will be able to have more “natural” conversations with their car, including language translation, navigational help, and finding specific locations. They’ll even be able to ask the AI assistant to answer questions about their vehicle’s user manual. Volvo framed it as easing the driver’s “cognitive load” so they can keep their eyes on the road.Drivers will be able to have more “natural” conversations with their car.Earlier this month, Google said that it would make Gemini available to cars that support Android Auto, the company’s popular phone mirroring program. But whereas Android Auto users will get access to Gemini in the coming weeks, vehicles with Android Automotive — marketed as Google built-in — won’t get access until later this year.Drivers and passengers will be able to use Gemini send texts, get directions, play music, and basically all the things that Google Assistant has been able to do. The main difference is users won’t have to use stilted, robotic commands, instead relying on Gemini’s natural language capabilities.Volvo will also now serve as one of Google’s reference hardware platforms for the development and testing of future automotive technology. That means Volvo’s vehicles will get “new features and updates” from Google before they are added to the main Android codebase.“Through this partnership with Google, we are able to bring the very latest features and capabilities from the leading consumer eco-system into our products first,” Alwin Bakkenes, head of global software engineering at Volvo Cars, said in a statement. “With our expanding partnership, we’re collaborating on cutting-edge solutions that shape the future of connected cars.”Volvo has worked closely with Google for a number of years and is already first in line to receive product updates, like high-def maps, built-in YouTube, and voice-controlled HVAC systems. Polestar, Volvo’s former performance subbrand (now a standalone marque), was the first company to sell cars with native Android Automotive OS.Google’s annual developer conference, held at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View, California, was all about Gemini this year. And the car is quickly emerging as an important platform for the chatbot, especially with its myriad of challenges — namely steering a 2-ton metal box through a complex environment riddled with pitfalls.Google is positioning Gemini as a team player with the other core parts of the vehicle’s operating system. “Navigation apps can integrate with Gemini using three core intent formats, allowing you to start navigation, display relevant search results, and execute custom actions, such as enabling users to report incidents like traffic congestion using their voice,” Ben Sagmoe, developer relations engineer, wrote on the Android Developers Blog.See More:

From effortlessly switching lights to locking doors to setting kitchen timers, smart home devices can make everyday tasks a lot easier. They can grant you peace of mind. Luckily, with smart home devices growing in popularity, prices are lower than ever, and the tech itself is way easier to install. However, while market popularity has driven prices down, it's also made it more difficult to determine which are the best smart home devices. ZDNET is here to help you choose the right one. What is the best smart home device right now?ZDNET's pick for the current best smart home device is the Echo Show 8, a smart display with Amazon Alexa that lets iOS and Android utilize the benefits of a smart home. It's a comprehensive device for experienced and entry-level smart home enthusiasts alike. Delivering the convenience of voice control via a virtual assistant, the Echo Show 8 features a powerful speaker and touch display while functioning as a smart home hub with Zigbee, Matter, and Thread support. Also: I used Amazon's Echo Show 21 as my smart home hub - and it's almost perfect Sort by All The best smart home devices of 2025 Show less Our top pick for the best overall smart home device is the third-generation Amazon Echo Show 8. It has a great smart display and speaker combination for most beginner and experienced smart home users. Amazon's newest Echo Show 8 boasts a sleeker design with edge-to-edge glass, a centrally placed camera for video calls, and spatial audio from the smaller speaker enclosure.I've been using the Echo Show 8 daily for almost a year, and this generation's improved processor delivers far faster performance than older models. It's become my kitchen companion for running smart home routines, interacting with Alexa, and streaming music and video content on the 8-inch HD screen while cooking.Review: Amazon Echo Show 8 (third-gen)This is the first Echo Show 8 to feature the camera in a central location rather than off to one side. This aids in better visual experiences during video calls. The camera also works for Visual ID personalization and Adaptive Content. Visual ID lets the Echo Show 8 recognize household members to personalize content, while Adaptive Content adjusts the screen's content based on a person's proximity.It's a highly rated smart speaker, with one buyer saying, "I purchased this a few months ago, and it has exceeded my expectations in every way. The Spatial Audio feature provides a rich and immersive sound experience, perfect for listening to music, podcasts, and even video calls. The smart home hub integration is seamless, allowing me to easily control all my smart devices. Alexa's responsiveness and sharp display make this device a pleasure to use daily. "Amazon Echo Show 8 features: Price: $150 | Compatibility: Amazon Alexa | Connectivity: Wi-fi, Bluetooth, and is a hub for Matter, Thread, Zigbee | Specs: 8-inch HD touchscreen, 13MP video call camera, Alexa voice assistant  Pros Spatial audio Tailors content to different people Fast response time Cons Few customization options Alexa is great, but could always improve Our top pick for the best overall smart home device is the third-generation Amazon Echo Show 8. It has a great smart display and speaker combination for most beginner and experienced smart home users. Amazon's newest Echo Show 8 boasts a sleeker design with edge-to-edge glass, a centrally placed camera for video calls, and spatial audio from the smaller speaker enclosure.I've been using the Echo Show 8 daily for almost a year, and this generation's improved processor delivers far faster performance than older models. It's become my kitchen companion for running smart home routines, interacting with Alexa, and streaming music and video content on the 8-inch HD screen while cooking.Review: Amazon Echo Show 8 (third-gen)This is the first Echo Show 8 to feature the camera in a central location rather than off to one side. This aids in better visual experiences during video calls. The camera also works for Visual ID personalization and Adaptive Content. Visual ID lets the Echo Show 8 recognize household members to personalize content, while Adaptive Content adjusts the screen's content based on a person's proximity.It's a highly rated smart speaker, with one buyer saying, "I purchased this a few months ago, and it has exceeded my expectations in every way. The Spatial Audio feature provides a rich and immersive sound experience, perfect for listening to music, podcasts, and even video calls. The smart home hub integration is seamless, allowing me to easily control all my smart devices. Alexa's responsiveness and sharp display make this device a pleasure to use daily. "Amazon Echo Show 8 features: Price: $150 | Compatibility: Amazon Alexa | Connectivity: Wi-fi, Bluetooth, and is a hub for Matter, Thread, Zigbee | Specs: 8-inch HD touchscreen, 13MP video call camera, Alexa voice assistant  Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Amazon This starter kit has everything you need to transform your lights into smart devices with Philips Hue. The kit includes two white and color smart bulbs and one Hue Bridge, so you can begin switching out old light bulbs for new ones. There's also room for expansion as the Bridge can handle up to 50 Philips Hue lights. These Philips Hue smart lights are compatible with Alexa, HomeKit, and Google for voice control and integration. They're easy to set up using the Bridge, allowing users to control the lights wherever they use the app, set routines and automation, and expand their Philips Hue ecosystem. It's important to note that without a Hue Bridge, customers can only connect their lights to their mobile app via Bluetooth, so they can't change settings remotely.Though not cheap, Philips Hue lights are undoubtedly some of the best on the market. One buyer wrote that they "love these smart bulbs and the ease [it took] to set up. Love that we can change the colors of the room from an app on the phone. Like how I can turn on lights when I need to when I'm away. Although I got the Hue bridge and two bulbs at a good price, the color bulbs are expensive. "Philips Hue Starter Kit features: Price: $180 | Wattage: 9.5 watts | Bulb size: A19 | Compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit Pros Millions of colors Dimming lights Instant-on option Cons Expensive Users report some issues with scheduling This starter kit has everything you need to transform your lights into smart devices with Philips Hue. The kit includes two white and color smart bulbs and one Hue Bridge, so you can begin switching out old light bulbs for new ones. There's also room for expansion as the Bridge can handle up to 50 Philips Hue lights. These Philips Hue smart lights are compatible with Alexa, HomeKit, and Google for voice control and integration. They're easy to set up using the Bridge, allowing users to control the lights wherever they use the app, set routines and automation, and expand their Philips Hue ecosystem. It's important to note that without a Hue Bridge, customers can only connect their lights to their mobile app via Bluetooth, so they can't change settings remotely.Though not cheap, Philips Hue lights are undoubtedly some of the best on the market. One buyer wrote that they "love these smart bulbs and the ease [it took] to set up. Love that we can change the colors of the room from an app on the phone. Like how I can turn on lights when I need to when I'm away. Although I got the Hue bridge and two bulbs at a good price, the color bulbs are expensive. "Philips Hue Starter Kit features: Price: $180 | Wattage: 9.5 watts | Bulb size: A19 | Compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Nest Learning Thermostat has proven to be one of Google's best smart home products to ever hit the market. With reliable performance and smart home integrations through Matter, this device has remained relevant for years, and the newest generation is no exception.Switching to a smart thermostat greatly impacted our home's climate control and energy efficiency. You can control your home's temperature from your phone no matter where you are, and program it to enter Eco Mode when you leave the house. The new Nest Learning Thermostat looks gorgeous and fits right into any home decor. It can display the temperature, the outside weather, or a clock.  It also learns your patterns and trends and suggests new settings to help keep your home comfortable while helping you save on utility bills."I'm upgrading from the learning thermostats that had the frosted glass look and had no trouble with installation, software setup just worked the first time," one buyer said. "The Matter support worked without a hitch on HomeKit and Home Assistant. And it seems that it's doing a better job than my old one at keeping the rooms I care about comfortable. The master bedroom is always perfect now after being in use for a week or so."Nest Thermostat features: Price: $280 | Installation: Works without C wire | Finish: Available in three colors with rounded display | Compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit through Matter Pros Turns HVAC system down while away from home Learns from usage Includes a temperature sensor Cons Is expensive The Nest Learning Thermostat has proven to be one of Google's best smart home products to ever hit the market. With reliable performance and smart home integrations through Matter, this device has remained relevant for years, and the newest generation is no exception.Switching to a smart thermostat greatly impacted our home's climate control and energy efficiency. You can control your home's temperature from your phone no matter where you are, and program it to enter Eco Mode when you leave the house. The new Nest Learning Thermostat looks gorgeous and fits right into any home decor. It can display the temperature, the outside weather, or a clock.  It also learns your patterns and trends and suggests new settings to help keep your home comfortable while helping you save on utility bills."I'm upgrading from the learning thermostats that had the frosted glass look and had no trouble with installation, software setup just worked the first time," one buyer said. "The Matter support worked without a hitch on HomeKit and Home Assistant. And it seems that it's doing a better job than my old one at keeping the rooms I care about comfortable. The master bedroom is always perfect now after being in use for a week or so."Nest Thermostat features: Price: $280 | Installation: Works without C wire | Finish: Available in three colors with rounded display | Compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit through Matter Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less If you've ever wished you could unlock your front door with your iPhone as easily as you can check out with Apple Pay, you'll definitely want to check out the Aqara U100.The Aqara U100 is a smart lock that offers users the option to unlock a door either by entering a predetermined passcode on the keypad, using their fingerprint, a physical key, a mobile app, near field communication (NFC) tags, or through Apple Home Key by simply holding their iPhone or Apple Watch up to their lock.Review: Aqara U100 smart lockThese versatile options came in handy many times during our testing. No longer will you need to fumble for a fob while holding a dozen grocery bags or trade a million texts with a locked-out pet sitter while out of town. This lock is also highly compatible, and works with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT. Aqara U100 smart lock features: Price: $150 | Unlock options: Fingerprint, passcodes, Apple Home Key mechanical key, and NFC | Compatibility: Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT | Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Pros High interoperability A lot of unlocking features Inexpensive compared to others Cons App is slow to respond If you've ever wished you could unlock your front door with your iPhone as easily as you can check out with Apple Pay, you'll definitely want to check out the Aqara U100.The Aqara U100 is a smart lock that offers users the option to unlock a door either by entering a predetermined passcode on the keypad, using their fingerprint, a physical key, a mobile app, near field communication (NFC) tags, or through Apple Home Key by simply holding their iPhone or Apple Watch up to their lock.Review: Aqara U100 smart lockThese versatile options came in handy many times during our testing. No longer will you need to fumble for a fob while holding a dozen grocery bags or trade a million texts with a locked-out pet sitter while out of town. This lock is also highly compatible, and works with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT. Aqara U100 smart lock features: Price: $150 | Unlock options: Fingerprint, passcodes, Apple Home Key mechanical key, and NFC | Compatibility: Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT | Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less If you want to beef up your home security with a smart option, I recommend the EufyCam 3 and HomeBase 3 bundle. The three cameras are easy to install indoors or outdoors and have a solar panel along the top that recharges the battery. I've had the two camera systems set up outside my home for almost two years and have only had to recharge one of them, installed facing north, a handful of times -- that's how effective their solar panels are at keeping the batteries charged. Aside from the Eufy Security system being a great ecosystem for home security, expandable with many different camera types, it also offers users who have more than one camera in their homes the ability to see the same event captured in a single clip by stitching different camera feeds together. "I wanted to be sure I had coverage on each side of my house (older neighborhood/long driveways). The setup was relatively easy, probably 30 minutes or less," one buyer said. "I have them on 4k all the time and no issues with battery life, even on a string of cloudy or rainy days. The 4k is very clear -- even at night."The cameras are wireless, so they can be installed almost anywhere. The HomeBase 3 is the local storage hub inside your home, where all the recorded clips are saved.EufyCam 3 and HomeBase 3 Features: Price: $530 | Power source: Solar-powered cameras, plug-in HomeBase | Resolution: 4K | Compatibility: Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa Pros Packed with features No monthly fees Excellent ecosystem Cons Expensive No integrations with HomeKit If you want to beef up your home security with a smart option, I recommend the EufyCam 3 and HomeBase 3 bundle. The three cameras are easy to install indoors or outdoors and have a solar panel along the top that recharges the battery. I've had the two camera systems set up outside my home for almost two years and have only had to recharge one of them, installed facing north, a handful of times -- that's how effective their solar panels are at keeping the batteries charged. Aside from the Eufy Security system being a great ecosystem for home security, expandable with many different camera types, it also offers users who have more than one camera in their homes the ability to see the same event captured in a single clip by stitching different camera feeds together. "I wanted to be sure I had coverage on each side of my house (older neighborhood/long driveways). The setup was relatively easy, probably 30 minutes or less," one buyer said. "I have them on 4k all the time and no issues with battery life, even on a string of cloudy or rainy days. The 4k is very clear -- even at night."The cameras are wireless, so they can be installed almost anywhere. The HomeBase 3 is the local storage hub inside your home, where all the recorded clips are saved.EufyCam 3 and HomeBase 3 Features: Price: $530 | Power source: Solar-powered cameras, plug-in HomeBase | Resolution: 4K | Compatibility: Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa Read More Show Expert Take Show less What are the tariffs in the U.S.?The recent U.S. tariffs on imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and India aim to boost domestic manufacturing but are likely to drive up prices on consumer electronics. Products like smartphones, laptops, and TVs may become more expensive as companies rethink global supply chains and weigh the cost of shifting production.Consumers may also experience notable price increases on robot vacuums and smart home products. Manufacturers are exploring options such as relocating production to countries with lower tariffs, but such transitions are complex and may not provide immediate relief. In the short term, shoppers should anticipate higher costs for robot vacuums due to these trade policies.Right now, it looks like some tech may be exempt from the issued tariffs, but since it's always changing and developing, we are keeping an eye on it and will update you on the latest.What is the best smart home device? For most people interested in smart homes, the Echo Show 8 is the best smart home device you can buy. This smart hub can host multiple devices, has fantastic connectivity options, and provides reliable voice assistance through Alexa. To see how the smart display compares to other smart home devices, here is a look at our picks:Best smart home deviceZDNET's takePriceCompatibilityConnectivityAmazon Echo Show 8Best overall$150AlexaMatter, Thread, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, BluetoothPhilips Hue Starter KitBest smart light$239Alexa, Google, HomeKitBluetooth, Wi-Fi through BridgeNest Learning ThermostatBest smart thermostat$240Alexa, Google, HomeKitWi-Fi, MatterAqara U100Best smart lock$143Alexa, Google, HomeKitWi-Fi, Aqara HubEufyCam 3 and HomeBase 3Best security camera$450Alexa, GoogleWi-Fi, Local storage Show more Which is the best smart home device for you? This list highlights the best smart home devices covering various areas of your home. From multi-device hubs to individual devices, there are many ways to make your home smart. Consider these recommendations if you are unsure which smart home device is best for you:Choose this smart home device...If you want...Amazon Echo Show 8A smart home display with Alexa built-in. Use it to keep an eye on your whole home and smart home devices.Philips Hue Starter KitTo bring the power of smart lighting to your home. Install mood lighting, uplighting, or simply save money in energy bills with these LED lights.Nest Learning ThermostatAn energy-efficient and smart way to control your home's HVAC system, no matter which home automation system you use, thanks to Matter.Aqara U100The most versatile smart lock available. Bring convenience to your front door with the touch of an app.EufyCam 3 and HomeBase 3An all-in-one smart home security system complete with expandable local storage, so you never have to worry about monthly fees. Show more Factors to consider when choosing smart home devices Choosing the right smart home devices can feel overwhelming with such a plethora of available options.Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a smart home device:Compatibility: Whether you're choosing a smart light, a smart lock, or a video doorbell, compatibility is a key factor in determining how much convenience your new devices will give you. Ensure your chosen devices are compatible with your existing smart home system like Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings.Installation: Many smart home devices serve a purpose that requires installation of some kind. Make sure your new device fits your installation capabilities or that you have someone to install it if not.Ease of use: User-friendly interfaces are typically the ones that endure. If a device is too hard or cumbersome, you probably won't use it. Read up on other reviewers' experiences with user interfaces for managing the devices.Price: Always compare prices. Look for value for money, but don't focus on the lowest price. If you compromise on essential features and quality, you'll pay for it in the long run.Reliability: This is a big deal in the smart home community and is part of the ease of use of devices. If a device constantly gets disconnected or unresponsive, it's not worth your time or money. Show more How we test smart home devices ZDNET reviews a wide range of devices to ensure we feature the ones that perform the best for our readers. As a smart home and robot vacuum reviewer, I evaluate each device's performance starting with the unboxing experience.To do this, I ensure the device meets all the manufacturer's claims for features and capabilities, verify it works smoothly with different smart home ecosystems -- I test with Google, Alexa, HomeKit, and SmartThings -- and monitor its performance over a period of time ranging from two weeks to months.  Show more Other smart home devices worth considering Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends