LOCAL-FIRST
Keep everyday control close to home
A connected home holds information about everyday life: device states, room use and routines. Choosing where those functions run—and who can access them—is part of designing the system.
What local-first means
We favour a local hub and compatible devices so everyday controls do not all depend on a vendor’s cloud. Home Assistant and local protocols provide the foundation; compatibility still needs checking device by device.
Know the dependencies
Local controls can work without internet when power and the required local equipment remain available. That does not make the home immune to power cuts, hardware failures or local network issues.
Remote access, weather and other integrations may involve outside services and require internet. Local-first is not the same as completely offline.
Ask three questions: what data is collected, where does it go, and who can access it? The answers should be clear for the setup you choose.
Plan permissions with the household
Multi-resident and rental setups need explicit access decisions. Device visibility, account permissions and separation between units should be configured and tested as part of the specific project.