Elevated Living for the New Year and Beyond

It’s that time of year when we look ahead to a new year filled with possibilities. As Brad Paisley said on New Year’s Eve, “Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.” 

So, where do you begin? In 2026, many homeowners are seeking solutions that make everyday life simpler and more enjoyable. They want the pages of their life defined by experiences that bring loved ones together, illuminated with a little spark of magic along the way. 

Today’s home automation and AV enhancements provide a great place to start—with nearly limitless customized solutions to transform a home into a modern sanctuary. 

As trusted smart-home advisors, our system designers at Applause Custom Sight & Sound help people determine which innovative technologies would make a meaningful difference in their lives. In honor of the New Year, we’re sharing some of our clients' favorites. 

How to Experience the Ultimate in Smart Home Living

Smart home living elevates everyday activities, transforms moods, and reshapes families. It’s a technology that’s hard to fathom until you experience it.

From waking to shades slowly opening and soft classical music filling your home to entertaining friends and family amidst lighting that aligns with the sunset with the big game synchronized in brilliant 4K images on every TV, smart technology offers a lifestyle that’s easy, elegant, and fun. 

But what happens when the wear and tear of everyday smart home living begins to overload the platform that manages it all? What are the signs that suggest it's time to upgrade your system to ensure the best experience possible? 

Here, we’ll explore a few telltale yet subtle signs that suggest your smart home isn’t operating at full speed ahead and needs a little TLC. 

Hidden Technology Offers the Best Entertainment & Home Aesthetics

Today’s technology offers extreme convenience and the best in home entertainment. TVs have grown and become 4K OLED with stunning visuals. Whole-home audio brings high-fidelity music to every room and across the outdoor landscape. Advanced LED systems deliver breathtaking lighting that aligns with the natural light of the sun, bringing daylight indoors. 

We live in a remarkable world, where technology dazzles the senses. 

One significant concern, however, is the effect this level of technology has on a home’s aesthetics. Today, the growing trend is toward biophilic design and minimalism—a less-is-more approach. Bulky AV equipment, massive lighting fixtures, and the wiring involved can quickly take away from the well-thought-out beauty and designs of today’s luxury homes. 

That’s where hidden technology comes in. 

Protecting Your Home While You’re Away

It’s that time of year when we look forward to gathering with friends and family, celebrating our blessings, and sharing them with others. Unfortunately, in addition to love and good cheer, the holiday season can also be a time of stress. As we gear up for traveling, we worry about what’s happening back home and feel an unease settling around us as we consider leaving our house sitting empty for days. 

It is, after all, the time of year when porch pirates enter into full swing and thieves look for unoccupied dwellings. FBI data shows that past Decembers have experienced over 70,000 burglaries nationwide. 

So, how do you put aside your fears and enjoy traveling this holiday season? The answer lies in smart security.