3 Tech “Upgrades” That Instantly Make a Home Look Bad, Designers Say

There are so many new home technologies that it can be overwhelming to walk through the home tech section of a store; between smart thermostats, smart fridges, smart bulbs, smart switches, smart blinds, and so much more, it can be hard to sift through all of the options.

But just because it is an option, doesn’t mean you should take it. We spoke with two designers who let us know which smart tech “upgrades” just aren’t worth the headache.

3 Home Tech “Upgrades” You Should Skip

Whether they’re bulky, hard to use, or hard to look at, our experts pointed out TK home tech options you should definitely skip.

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Oversized TVs

Often called the “ugly black box” by designers, TVs are already a bit of an eyesore in any living space. The only way to make this worse is by buying an oversized one.

“They distract from the overall design and can make even a beautifully layered room feel unbalanced,” says designer Danielle Chiprut.

However, if you’re dead set on having a larger TV for your space, there are ways to soften its harsh impression in your room.

“Integrate a giant TV with artwork, cabinetry, finishes so that it will disappear rather than act as an unattractive focal point,” designer Emily LaMarque suggests.

Large Floor Speakers

Unless your record collection is in the thousands, our experts think this one should be a skip. Not only do they take up physical and aesthetic space, but it’s just not necessary.

“There are so many great audio-visual products that mount into or behind the drywall and visually disappear, and some you may never know are there,” LaMarque says. “The key is to make it as invisible as possible so that it doesn’t create visual clutter in the space.”

In a space as decorated and visitor-facing as the living room, visual clutter should be a large concern.

“Visible wires and clunky wall mounts take away from the sense of polish,” Chiprut adds.

If you simply must have a home stereo setup, maybe keep it to the bedroom or media room.

Small Smart Appliances

At the end of the day, the most important thing when investing in smart appliances is to ensure that they won’t make your space look like a cluttered tech startup. Both experts mentioned that no matter what you get, it just shouldn’t take up too much visual space.

“When technology overwhelms a room visually or looks like an afterthought, it interrupts the flow and harmony of a space,” Chiprut says.

If you want it, by all means invest in that robot vacuum, air fryer, smart home speaker, and device charging station. Just be intentional with your storage in order to maintain the aesthetic of your home.

“Keeping these items in closets, cabinets, and well-positioned behind decorative objects can maintain the aesthetic of a space by eliminating visual clutter,” LaMarque says.

Home Tech Upgrades That Are Worth It

When investing in home tech, it’s important to think about the functionality of the upgrade. Some—like smart thermostats—are going to be worth the visual detraction just because of the technological benefits they provide.

But, there are also smart technologies that blend use and aesthetic in a way that makes them even more appealing to someone looking for upgrades.

“Frame TVs that double as artwork, built-in speakers, and smart lighting systems enhance both function and aesthetic,” Chiprut says.

LaMarque is also a big proponent of motorized drapes and shades; not only do they make life easier, but their tech parts usually aren’t even visible.

“The motors are completely concealed within the window treatments so you have the benefit of the technology along with the beauty of the window treatment design,” she says.