CREATING A BETTER HOME

It’s the little things that elevate a project beyond simply being a house and instead make it ahome that’s enjoyable to be in. Lindsay Blair looks at products and innovations enhancing our day-to-day lives and introducing long-lasting, sustainable moments of enjoyment

Installed by Haus & Technik, this home boasts automatic external shutters to help with indoor climate control and shading. Operated via the intuitive Loxone system, they adjust position throughout the day depending on sun levels and temperature. Prices for Loxone integration start from £750 depending on connected features, excluding installation

Rondo V pivot door in oak with ebony oil, Option 6 handle in black finish and clear glass sidelite, £9,894 for the doorset at 1,200 x 2,400mm, Urban Front

It’s not only build materials, access to natural light and good layout that make a home better. The design, quality and impact of fixtures, fittings and finishing touches – from the lighting, heating and smart integrations to doors and windows, ironmongery and accessories – can go a long way to enhancing how we live.

Sustainable choices and energy-efficient options should be a focus from the outset of a build, but alongside these, consider which features will bring lasting enjoyment. Arguably, the most sustainable designs are the ones you won’t want to change. “We’re becoming increasingly conscious of the importance of creating more mindful living spaces,” says Sarah Chiappi, director of sales at Zuma. “Promoting positive wellbeing in the home is more important than ever. They should be a safe space for us to relax and rejuvenate our bodies and minds.”

Zuma’s in-ceiling speaker lights are a popular addition to kitchen upgrades. This space features the Zuma Lumisonic, £500; Zuma Luminaire, £180 and Smart Bezel Voice, £156