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10 Must-Have Accessories for a Modern Home

10 Must Have Accessories for a Modern Home
Image Credit: Patryk_Kosmider from Getty Images

Decorating your home can be a fun and personal experience, but deciding what accessories to include can make a huge difference in creating a modern and stylish space. What are the must-have accessories that can elevate your home’s look and feel? Whether you’re moving into a new house or just looking to update a room, these items can help create a more comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

From unique decor pieces to functional items, the right accessories can transform your home. They can reflect your personality and enhance your living experience. Get ready to discover the essentials that every modern home should feature.

1) Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat is a game-changer for your modern home. It automatically adjusts the temperature to keep you comfortable and save energy.

You can control it from your phone, even when you’re not home. This means you’ll never come back to a chilly house in winter or an overheated one in summer.

Brands like Ecobee offer popular models. The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is well-designed and easy to use. It balances functionality with a sleek design, making it an excellent choice for most people. You can learn more about it here.

If you’re on a budget, the Sensi Smart Thermostat ST55 is a great option. It works well with HomeKit and is affordable. More details can be found here.

For homes with electric heating systems, the Mysa Smart Thermostat (v2) is ideal. It controls high-voltage systems, like baseboard heaters. Information about it is available here.

With a smart thermostat, you’ll enjoy convenience and efficiency, making it a perfect accessory for any modern home.

2) Ring Video Doorbell

The Ring Video Doorbell is a great addition to any home. It lets you see and talk to visitors from your phone, no matter where you are.

One cool accessory for the Ring Video Doorbell is a Solar Charger Mount. This helps keep your doorbell powered without having to recharge it often.

Another useful add-on is the Ring Alarm Pro Base Station. It boosts your home security system and connects smoothly with your doorbell.

For a more personalized look, you can get different Faceplates. They come in various colors and designs to match your home’s style.

If you don’t want to drill holes in your wall, the No-Drill Mount is perfect. It sticks to your surface and holds the doorbell firmly in place.

There are also Holiday Faceplates for different seasons, allowing you to decorate your doorbell for occasions like Halloween or Christmas.

All these accessories help you get the most out of your Ring Video Doorbell while making sure it fits your home perfectly.

3) Sonos One Speaker

The Sonos One is an ideal speaker for any modern home. It’s compact, fitting perfectly on shelves, counters, or snug spaces.

You can control it using the Sonos app, touch controls on the speaker, or your voice with built-in voice assistants.

Pair two Sonos Ones together for stereo sound.

This setup also lets you use them as rear speakers in a home theater system, enhancing your movie-watching experience. With this flexibility, the Sonos One is a versatile addition to your home audio setup.

If you’re looking for a speaker that offers great sound and modern features, the Sonos One is a solid choice.

It’s available on Sonos’s official site and other electronics retailers.

4) Roomba i7+ Robot Vacuum

The Roomba i7+ Robot Vacuum is a game-changer for keeping your home clean. It’s perfect for busy people who don’t have the time to vacuum regularly. With this device, you’ll always have clean floors without lifting a finger.

What’s great about the Roomba i7+ is its self-emptying feature. It can empty its dustbin for up to 60 days, so you don’t have to worry about constant maintenance. This is perfect for large families or pet owners.

The vacuum also features Dirt Detect technology, which focuses on areas that need the most cleaning. This ensures that even high-traffic areas get the attention they need. It can clean both carpets and hard floors, making it versatile for any home.

Another benefit is the Roomba i7+’s Wi-Fi connectivity. You can control it using an app on your phone, schedule cleanings, or start it remotely. This feature makes it incredibly convenient, especially if you want to clean while you’re away from home.

The Edge-Sweeping Brush ensures that corners and edges of your rooms are cleaned thoroughly. Plus, it navigates under and around furniture with ease, so you don’t have to move anything yourself.

If you’re looking for a hands-off cleaning solution, the Roomba i7+ is worth considering.

5) Philips Hue Smart Bulbs

Philips Hue Smart Bulbs are a great way to upgrade your home lighting. These smart bulbs come in different shapes and sizes, making it easy to find the right fit for your space. You can control them using an app, voice commands, or a physical remote.

With Philips Hue, you can choose from millions of colors. It’s perfect for setting the mood for any occasion. Whether it’s a party or a quiet evening, you can change the lighting to match.

Installation is simple. Just screw the bulbs into your existing sockets and connect them to your home Wi-Fi. No need for complicated wiring.

You can also set schedules and timers. Imagine waking up to gentle light in the morning or having lights turn off automatically at night. It’s convenient and helps save energy.

For an immersive experience, you can sync the lights with your music, movies, or games. This adds an extra level of fun and excitement to your entertainment.

Philips Hue also offers various accessories like dimmer switches and motion sensors. These add more functionality and make controlling your lights even easier.

Explore more on the Philips Hue website to see all the options available.

6) Nest Protect Smoke and CO2 Detector

The Nest Protect Smoke and CO2 Detector is a smart device that keeps your home safe. It can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, alerting you instantly on your phone. This feature is handy, especially when you’re not at home.

The device speaks to you with voice alerts and uses colors to show different statuses. For example, it will glow yellow for a Heads-Up and red for an emergency. You won’t have to guess what’s happening.

Nest Protect runs automatic tests on its batteries and sensors. It even performs a Sound Check to ensure everything is working. If you accidentally burn toast, you can hush the alarm easily through the Nest app on your phone.

Installation is simple. If you have an existing smoke alarm, just remove it and replace it with the Nest Protect. Detailed installation steps help prevent electrical shocks and damage to your ceiling or wall. You can find more information on how to install Nest Protect.

For those who prefer visual aids, the PDF User’s Guide is helpful. The guide explains the steps clearly with images, making it easier for you to understand and follow along.

7) August Smart Lock Pro

The August Smart Lock Pro is a fantastic way to secure your home. It’s not just about security, though. It makes everyday life easier. You can lock and unlock your door from anywhere with your phone.

It works with various smart home platforms, like Alexa and Google Assistant. You can also use it with other devices, like the Apple Watch.

Another great feature is guest access. You can create temporary codes for visitors. This way, they can enter without a key. Plus, it has auto-lock and auto-unlock. Your door will lock when you leave and unlock when you come back.

Setting it up is simple. It fits over your existing deadbolt. You don’t need to replace your lock. The Connect module lets you control it remotely using Wi-Fi.

If you’re looking to upgrade your home, the August Smart Lock Pro is a must-have. You get easy access, smart features, and top-notch security. It’s a great addition for anyone wanting to modernize their home.

8) Amazon Echo Show

The Amazon Echo Show is a game-changer for any modern home. You can control it with your voice and easily interact with its screen. It’s perfect for video calls, streaming movies, or checking the weather.

Imagine having a personal assistant that’s always ready. From displaying your shopping list to helping you follow a recipe, the Echo Show has you covered. You can even watch YouTube and Netflix right on the device.

One of the coolest features is its compatibility with other smart home gadgets. Use it to adjust your thermostat, turn off the lights, or even see who’s at the door with compatible cameras. It really ties all your devices together.

You’ll love the sound quality, too. The Echo Show delivers clear, crisp audio for your favorite songs or podcasts. Plus, the vibrant display is great for watching your favorite shows or video chatting with friends.

If you’re looking to step up your home tech, the Amazon Echo Show is definitely worth considering. Its versatility and convenience make it a must-have accessory for any modern home.

9) KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer

The KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer is an essential accessory for any modern kitchen. With a powerful motor and a range of attachments, it handles anything you throw at it.

It comes with a 5-quart bowl, perfect for mixing large batches. You can easily make dough for pizzas, cookies, and more.

This mixer has a tilt-head design, making it super easy to add ingredients. Plus, it’s stylish and available in many colors to match your kitchen decor.

You get handy accessories like the dough hook and flex edge beater. These make kneading dough and mixing batters a breeze.

There’s also an optional pasta maker attachment. Fresh homemade pasta is just a mix away.

This mixer isn’t just for baking. With the slicer/shredder attachment, you can shred vegetables and cheese quickly.

Overall, the versatility and style of the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer make it a must-have for your modern home.

10) Dyson V11 Vacuum

The Dyson V11 Vacuum is a game changer for home cleaning. It’s cordless, making it easy to move around your house without getting tangled up.

This vacuum is powerful and effective on both carpets and hard floors. The LED screen shows cleaning modes and battery life, so you’re always in the know.

With up to 60 minutes of run time, you can clean your entire home in one go. The Dyson V11 comes with various accessories, perfect for tackling different tasks around your house. You can check it out here.

If you have pets, you’ll appreciate the Motorbar cleaner head that easily removes pet hair. The washable filter is also a plus, saving you money on replacements.

This vacuum might be a bit heavier and pricier than other models, but its performance makes it worth it. For those looking for a premium cleaning experience, the Dyson V11 is a must-have.

Find it easily at Best Buy or other retailers. With the Dyson V11, cleaning your home has never been easier or more efficient.

Importance of Modern Home Accessories

Modern home accessories offer more than just visual appeal. They enhance the look and feel of your home, provide functional benefits, and let you express your personal style.

Enhancing Aesthetics

Modern home accessories can transform a plain room into a stylish space. Items like sleek metallic sculptures and abstract wall art add a touch of sophistication. Bold colors and geometric shapes are often found in these accessories. They create a visually cohesive look and can serve as focal points. Lamp fixtures with unique designs also contribute to the overall ambiance. Adding a statement rug or decorative pillows can instantly uplift the room’s appearance.

Boosting Functionality

Accessories are not just about looks; they can be highly functional too. For instance, a tankless water heater is a modern upgrade that saves space and provides endless hot water. Enhanced kitchen storage solutions make cooking more efficient. Items like a well-designed colander or food storage containers keep your kitchen organized. Smart home devices, like programmable thermostats, make managing your home more convenient. Even a simple cheese grater can add to the efficiency of your kitchen tasks.

Reflecting Personal Style

Your home should reflect who you are. Modern accessories allow you to showcase your personality. Art pieces, whether they are paintings or sculptures, can express your taste. Choosing a Diptyque Ginger Hourglass Diffuser not only adds fragrance but also serves as a stylish decor piece. Displaying travel souvenirs or family photos adds a personal touch. The style you choose, be it minimalistic, eclectic, or bold, communicates your character to anyone who visits.

Each of these aspects—enhancing aesthetics, boosting functionality, and reflecting personal style—plays a crucial role in making your home a better place to live.

Best Practices for Choosing Home Accessories

When choosing home accessories, think about how they match your room’s style, how they balance looks and usefulness, and how they fit the space available.

Matching Your Interior Design Theme

Pick accessories that fit your home’s design theme. For a modern look, choose items with clean lines and a sleek finish. In a rustic home, go for wood and earthy tones. Accessories like throws, pillows, and rugs should match or complement your color scheme.

If your walls are neutral, add pops of color with art or decorative items. If your furniture is bold, keep accessories simple. Avoid clashing patterns—stick to a consistent theme to make everything look cohesive.

Decorative pieces should enhance your current decor without overwhelming it. For example, if your home has a minimalist style, select elegant, understated items. For a bohemian look, vibrant, eclectic pieces work best.

Balancing Style and Utility

Pick items that look good but also serve a purpose. For example, a stylish lamp can enhance a room while providing light. Choose items that add value to your daily life. Umbrella stands keep your hallway tidy, while decorative baskets can store clutter attractively.

Functional items can still be beautiful. Think about mixing aesthetic appeal with practicality. In the kitchen, choose pretty yet sturdy containers for storage. In the living room, a chic coffee table can double as storage for magazines or remotes.

Adopt a less-is-more approach. Pick accessories that serve dual purposes. For example, a decorative mirror can make a small room feel larger while adding a design element. Choose wisely to avoid clutter and keep your home organized.

Considering Space and Scale

Think about the size of your space when choosing accessories. In a small room, avoid large items that can make the area feel cramped. Opt for smaller, impactful pieces instead. In larger rooms, you can choose bigger items to fill the space proportionately.

Measure your space before buying new accessories. Ensure they fit well without overpowering the room. A large art piece might look great over a big sofa but overwhelm a small wall. Similarly, small items might get lost in a big room.

Keep items proportionate to the furniture and space. For instance, pair a massive vase with tall furniture, or place smaller items on a compact shelf. Pay attention to visual balance to create a harmonious environment.

Conor Jameson
Written By

Conor Jameson was born and raised in Ireland where he was an accomplished carpenter by trade. He moved to the United States after meeting his now wife Sarah, while she was studying abroad. Conor and Sarah currently live in the New England area and love buying, renovating and selling old homes.

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