If you’re someone who takes pride in the appearance of your home, you may worry that all this technology will hurt your interior design plan. Fortunately, this doesn’t need to be the case — you don’t need to compromise on aesthetics for your security. As you consider adding or upgrading a home security system, keep your home décor in mind with these four tips.
1. Match your aesthetic
Take a look at your decorating style. Are you more modern or traditional? Do you prefer wood, leather, or metal accents? Are your walls bright white or a burst of color?
The first trick is to try to match your security components to your existing environment, so they don’t stand out. For example, wood finishes create a very different visual impact than brushed metal, so you wouldn’t want a chrome-finished smart camera in a rustic room. If your style varies throughout the house, you may wish to change the look of your security components accordingly. Once you choose a color palette for an area, stick with it — nothing will stand out more than a black control panel in a sea of white outlets and switch covers.
2. Ask for what you want and shop around
Your home security systems sales rep may not take the look of your home’s interior into account, but that doesn’t mean you need to accept what is offered. As you’re shopping, ask for your design choices. Are there different colors and materials to choose from? Third-party products may also work with your system, so do your research to see what finishes they offer.
3. Add a skin to what you’ve got
Whether you’re piecing together your own home security systems or purchasing a more robust, monitored smart system, you’ll likely be able to add some popular smart home products to the mix. Because of their popularity, it’s easier to find accessories like stands and skins that help these components blend with your current décor. If you’re crafty, you may be able to make your own — just make sure any homemade wraps or covers don’t conflict with the functionality of the device.
4. Camouflage like a pro
For those security components that simply do not match their surroundings, you have one last choice — camouflage. When possible, tuck your smart home components in out-of-the-way places where they won’t draw the eye. If that’s not an option, consider embracing them and making them part of a display on a shelf or wall.
Your new or upgraded home security system doesn’t need to become an eyesore in your beautiful house. With some legwork and creativity, you can enjoy peace of mind along with a lovely environment.
About Author: Christy Matte is a Boston-based writer and contributor for Xfinity Home. She has been covering tech for the past decade but has been enamored with it her whole life. Christy has two Minecraft-obsessed kids, a software engineer husband, a crazy cat who thinks she’s a dog, and a hedgehog who barely tolerates them all.