Smart Home Must-Haves for 2026 — Designing for the Future with Apex Homes Florida

Tim C
Nov 13
2 min read

As technology continues to evolve, custom home design is moving into an exciting new era. At Apex Homes Florida, we’re helping homeowners prepare for the future by integrating the smart home essentials of 2026 — blending innovation with design excellence.

1. Integrated Video Doorbells

Next-generation doorbells now sync with the entire home ecosystem. Wall-mounted touchscreens let you monitor, light entryways, and lock doors — all from one place.

2. AI-Powered Home Assistants

In 2026, home assistants will be embedded seamlessly into architecture — no speakers on the counter, just hidden microphones and speakers that respond to your voice anywhere (We are big fans of Josh.AI as a closed loop, private home automation support assistant). They’ll manage lighting, music, climate, and even security intuitively through AI.

Wall-mounted touchscreen security panel controlling video doorbell, lighting, and smart locks in an Apex Homes Florida home. — Josh.AI whole-house Home Automation System

3. Smart Appliances

The kitchen of 2026 features connected appliances that work together:

Smart ovens that preheat via voice control
Refrigerators that catalog contents with built-in cameras
Invisible induction cooktops that turn your counter into a cooking surface. A kitchen this advanced deserves an equally refined layout and design — something we specialize in at Apex.

Modern smart kitchen featuring Wi-Fi-connected appliances, invisible induction cooktop, and AI-powered lighting by Apex Homes Florida. — Invisible Induction Cooking Technology in the countertop

4. Smart Bathroom Technology

From voice-controlled showers to AI-powered mirrors with defogging, lighting, and even weather updates — the bathroom is evolving into a luxury wellness retreat. Touchless faucets and self-cleaning toilets bring convenience, efficiency, and cleanliness to a new level.

Luxury bathroom with digital shower controls, touchless faucets, and integrated smart mirror in a custom home by Apex Homes Florida. — Kohler Voice Controlled Automated Shower system

5. Mounted Control Panels and Tablets

Homeowners are opting for subtle, built-in tech panels that provide full control over lighting, temperature, and security. Our designs integrate these panels naturally into walls and cabinetry to maintain clean lines and aesthetic flow.

6. AI Fitness Mirrors

Smart fitness mirrors, like AEKE or Tempo, are redefining in-home workouts with real-time AI feedback, personalized training, and immersive experiences — perfect for Florida homeowners who value both wellness and privacy.

Home gym with AI-powered fitness mirror and integrated sound system designed by Apex Homes Florida. — Home Automation - Fitness Mirrors can be built-in during your build

7. Climate Control

Next-gen thermostats learn your preferences, adjusting automatically for efficiency and comfort. Integrated AI helps balance energy use across the home — making every Apex residence as smart as it is sustainable.

From kitchens and bathrooms to entertainment and energy management, the smart homes of 2026 will redefine luxury living. At Apex Homes Florida, we combine technology, architecture, and craftsmanship to create homes that aren’t just beautiful — they’re brilliant.