IAmHOME

Abstract

This thesis investigates the transition of traditional houses into Smart Homes, emphasizing the improvement of residents’ well-being, particularly for those aged 50 to 60. It is set against the rapid growth of Smart Home Devices enabled by the Internet of Things, facilitating easy control and monitoring of home features. There has been a significant increase in the market, with global shipments of such devices rising by 12% in 2021, reflecting a trend towards more connected and automated homes.
Smart Homes are becoming increasingly popular with people spending more time at home and the rise in digitalization. These homes represent technology and address the needs of an aging population, energy efficiency, and personal well-being enhancement. Yet, this shift to digital comes with challenges, including reliance on the internet and potential cybersecurity risks. The dissertation critically reviews these issues and looks at possibilities applied in the Built Environment.
Approaching the integration of Artificial Intelligence in the Built Environment, the study delves into the evolution from Smart Homes to Intelligent Homes. In this transition, AI plays a crucial role in creating environments that are adaptive and capable of making predictions. This shift towards more advanced technology raises important issues regarding privacy, ethical implications, and finding the right balance between convenience and security.
The research is driven by a detailed problem statement emphasizing the urgent need for innovative housing solutions in light of an aging society and healthcare system pressures. The case study developed in this thesis is in the Netherlands, where projections suggest that by 2035, over 24% of the population will be 65 and above. The study aims to transform an existing house into a Smart Home, focusing on improving indoor climate and resident well-being. Recognizing the subjective nature of health and well-being, it notes that the advantages of a Smart Home can differ among individuals. The study is significant for its potential contribution to the development of assistive technologies and services, ultimately seeking to improve life quality and support aging in place for future generations. With a combination of interdisciplinary fields such as Architecture and the Built Environment, design, and Artificial Intelligence, this thesis explored the possibilities for the future by taking a computational approach, including focusing on the indoor environment, comfort, and other things related to the technical aspect of the building.