How to install smart home technology in your New York City apartment + Older listings with new technology

By CityRealty Staff | From Get To Know Thursday, August 3, 2023

Appearances can be deceiving - this prewar apartment is underpinned with state-of-the-art smart home technology (200 Mercer Street, #4B - Douglas Elliman)

Over the past few years, the Internet of Things (IoT) has dramatically expanded from smart thermostats to full homes where the temperature, blinds, lights, security, and entertainment are controlled by a wall panel or a smartphone app like something out of The Jetsons or a futuristic movie. Savant, Crestron, Lutron, and Control4 are among the most popular systems; either way, a smart home needs three components:

A hub to control all devices. This can be anything from a central control panel to one’s own smartphone or tablet.
Compatible software to control and sync gadgets. Many ready-made home systems will already offer this, but those going the DIY route should take care to check with the hub’s manufacturer to ensure that the apps and devices will work with it.
Smart devices themselves! Depending on the kind of smart home you wish to create, these can include anything and everything from energy-saving thermostats to video doorbells to multi-room speakers.

Thanks to significant technological advances, installing smart home technology has never been easier. It is so easy, in fact, that some builders and designers have been able to seamlessly incorporate it into their new residential developments. With built-in Crestron systems in every unit, One United Nations Park is perhaps the best-known example; it is far more common for developers to incorporate basic features like smart thermostats and smart locks into their infrastructure and let buyers decide how far they want to go with the rest.

Indeed, some form of smart home technology is becoming more frequent than not in new developments. But for those living in older buildings, all hope is not lost. In the early days of IoT, smart home set-up required the kind of invasive installation that co-op boards and building managers were none too pleased about. Today, though, wireless solutions without permanent fixtures or landline connections can work in all types of New York homes. The following listings are located in buildings constructed over 50 years ago, but come equipped with state-of-the-art smart home technology.

234 East 14th Street, #3A
$799,999 (-5.9%)

East Village | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 650 ft²

234 East 14th Street, #3A (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: This stunning turn-key smart home is the product of a meticulous gut renovation where every detail has been carefully considered to create an oasis of luxury and comfort. The centerpiece of the home is the brand-new kitchen that connects the living room and bedroom. It features a Samsung stove/oven, a farm sink with a top-of-the-line mixer, cabinets with accent LED lights both underneath and inside, a wine cooler, a built-in microwave, a Fischer Paykel refrigerator, Sone counters, and a glass backsplash. An iPad is also recessed in the kitchen wall, serving as another control point for the home's Lutron lighting system and HVAC system. The bedroom is a true masterpiece with exquisite hers/his custom closet systems with LED lighting, a Swarovski light fixture, LED accent lighting, and a brand-new custom/solid fire-rated door that features rubber gaskets on all four sides to make it soundproof (the front door is also a custom/solid fire-rated door for sound control). See floor plan and full details here.

One Brooklyn Bridge Park, #701
$1,400,000

Brooklyn Heights | Condominium | 1 Bedroom, 1.5 Baths | 1,085 ft²

One Brooklyn Bridge Park, #701 (Compass)

From the Listing: This stunning corner unit boasts unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the East River. The chef's kitchen is equipped with high-end stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry designed by Dada, and a large center island perfect for entertaining guests. There is plenty of storage space and well-designed functioning closets, including a glass display cabinet with remote-controlled lights, shoe shelves, dressing mirrors, belt and scarf hangers, and many more. The apartment is equipped with smart home devices, including Wemo light switches, Nest control for the HVAC and smoke detector, as well as automatic shades in both the living room and the bedroom. See floor plan and full details here.

245 West 24th Street, #FIRSTFL
$1,499,000

Chelsea | Cooperative | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 1,000 ft²

245 West 24th Street, #FIRSTFL (Christie's International Real Estate Group LLC)

From the Listing: This renovated floor-through apartment offers a unique combination of style, serenity, and convenience. Upon arrival, eyes are quickly drawn to the back of the home where floor-to-ceiling glass doors have a private lush garden on full display. The open-concept living area has a functioning wood-burning fireplace set into an exposed brick wall. The kitchen was designed with entertainment in mind and takes full advantage of the lush garden views outside. The landscaped backyard is complete with seating, electricity, heat, sound, and water. There are three quiet-operation Fujitsu split-system air conditioning units, a built-in RabbitAir purifying system, and an Aprilaire humidifier. Complete control over the temperature, lights, security, and curtains from your phone or voice. See floor plan and full details here.

209 East 56th Street, #11PQR
$1,995,000

Midtown East | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths

209 East 56th Street, #11PQR (Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales LLC)

From the Listing: This huge, elegantly renovated three bedroom/convertible four bedroom, four bathroom home is highlighted by a magnificent 650-square-foot terrace. At the heart of the home, you find a true chef's windowed open-concept kitchen with top-of-the line appliances, granite countertops, custom maple cabinetry and exceptional storage. The sunny south facing living and dining rooms total over 36 feet in length of glorious entertaining space, leading to the enormous private terrace, outfitted with an automated irrigation system and lighting. The bedroom wing, comprised of three bedrooms, has custom milled solid 6" wide plank wedge floors. State-of-the-art technology is featured throughout this sophisticated home, which is fully Cat 5 wired for a multi-zoned, fully integrated Crestron smart home system. There are touchpads in every room to control music, TV's, lighting, electronic solar/blackout shades and air conditioners. Speakers are built-in throughout, providing top quality sound in every room including the primary dressing room, steam room and terrace. See floor plan and full details here.

Cannon Point South, #9F
$2,500,000

Beekman/Sutton Place | Cooperative | 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths

Cannon Point South, #9F (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: This triple mint, gut renovated home was impeccably designed with no expense spared and no detail overlooked by renowned super-star designer Vicente Wolf. The elegant entrance gallery with a wall of custom closets leads to an oversized living room. The custom windowed kitchen with expansive river views is a true chef's dream with made-to-order cabinets and pantry, high-end appliances, farmhouse sink, U-Line wine refrigerator and Glassos Stone countertops and backsplash. The three large, well-proportioned bedrooms all have East River views. This special, one-of-a-kind apartment features 6" wide wood plank floors, new windows (that open completely or tilt-in), speakers throughout with surround sound in the den and invisible speakers in the living room/dining room, decorative wallpaper, electric-smart home shades in the living and dining rooms and incredible closet and storage space. Maintenance includes utilities. See floor plan and full details here.

133 West 14th Street, #6
$2,750,000 (-8.3%)

Chelsea | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths | 1,600 ft²

133 West 14th Street, #6 (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Welcome to this stunning, turn-key, south-facing full floor condo! Oversized windows flood the apartment with natural light, while high ceilings give the space an airy, open feel. The living room is highlighted by a wood-burning fireplace with custom hidden storage for wood and fireplace tools. The dining room features a custom-made bar and LED accent lighting, creating the perfect setting for entertaining guests. There is a custom-built wine closet with temperature and humidity control and a custom bar with a Sub-Zero beverage fridge, and the kitchen is a chef's dream. The north-facing bedrooms in the back of the apartment are very quiet, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. This apartment is equipped with all the latest smart home technology, including a Sonos sound system with in-ceiling speakers, Lutron RadioRa2 lighting control system, NEST smoke/CO2 detectors and thermostats, and a central reporting alarm that can all be controlled via an app on your phone. The apartment comes with a keyed storage unit in the basement. See floor plan and full details here.

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Holtz House, #7R
$4,225,000

Flatiron/Union Square | Condominium | 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths | 2,420 ft²

Holtz House, #7R (Elegran LLC)

From the Listing: This stunning Flatiron home features it all: elegant living and dining, soaring 11-foot ceilings, magnificent sunlit interior, gourmet chef's kitchen, convertible 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood flooring, stylish aesthetic and exquisite design, blending the classic loft elements of light, space and air with top-of-the-line bespoke renovations and modern comforts. This smart home showcases a state-of-the-art Creston home system, multi-zone central HVAC, state-of-the-art window treatments, newly-installed and vented LG W/D, vented kitchen, radiant bathroom heating, and multiple thoughtfully-designed storage solutions. See floor plan and full details here.

200 Mercer Street, #4B
$4,500,000

Greenwich Village | Cooperative | 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

200 Mercer Street, #4B (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Introducing this two-bed, two-bath triple mint penthouse loft that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Step into the elegant entry gallery, which guides you towards a vast living room featuring 12-foot ceilings, exposed brick, and wide plank hardwood floors with beautiful west-facing light. Immerse yourself in the epitome of luxury entertainment with a discreet, automated home theater system with integrated speakers concealed within the walls and ceiling for a seamless aesthetic. This smart-home also offers convenient features like remote unlocking, an integrated security system, smart central air conditioning, and voice-activated blackout shades throughout. Hardwood 10' cabinetry and rolling library ladder provides ample storage, while the custom bar with 300-bottle wine fridge makes this home an entertainer's paradise. The expertly designed open kitchen showcases solid walnut cabinetry, exquisite marble countertops, and high-end appliances. Step out onto the expansive private roof deck, landscaped with privacy in mind, and finished in Brazilian hardwood Ipe. See floor plan and full details here.

Gracie Towers, #15E
$4,750,000

Yorkville | Cooperative | 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths

Gracie Towers, #15E (Compass)

From the Listing: High-floor luxury, jaw-dropping views and private outdoor space await in this beautifully gut-renovated Upper East Side showplace. Meticulously crafted by architect Tasos Kokoris and interior designer Don Boehm, this sprawling residence welcomes you with a gracious foyer finished with Saint Laurent Portoro Gold marble, gilded walls, bold millwork and tall ceilings trimmed with cove lighting. Gleaming wide-plank hardwood floors usher you into a magnificent open-plan great room that simply begs to entertain. Palatial living and dining areas flow to an east-facing terrace. Chefs will fall in love with the open gourmet kitchen where custom cabinetry and Calacatta marble counters surround a fleet of upscale stainless steel appliances. Head to the owner's suite to discover a king-size bedroom with river views, terrace access, a wall of wardrobes and a walk-in California Closet. A Savant home automation system adds effortless ease to this smart home with controls for audio/video and HVAC, plus lights and shades connected on a Lutron system. See floor plan and full details here.

130 East 38th Street, #NA
$4,875,000

Murray Hill | Townhouse | 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths | 2,917 ft²

130 East 38th Street, #NA (Corcoran Group)

From the Listing: Built in 1869 by developer Abraham B. Embury and architects D. & J. Jardine as a Second Empire-style brownstone, this historic gem was given a preservation award and landmark designation in 1997. The unique row of front windows were retained and refurbished, while entirely new oversized windows were cut into the rear. The modern open-tread staircase, fabricated from white oak and steel and an all-glass bulkhead, allow tremendous light to flow through the entire residence. Clean lines, elegant living spaces with high ceilings, marble bathrooms, custom chef's kitchen, full smart-home automation and entertainment with a multi-zone Sonos sound system, supply a gracious mix of formal and relaxed areas. The Lutron lighting system, thermostats and electronic shades can all be controlled remotely. A high-tech security system and video entry provide peace of mind and automated irrigation ensures worry-free maintenance of the landscaped outdoor entertaining areas. These include a wonderfully lush, furnished and landscaped roof terrace for lounging and dining with amazing views of the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings. See floor plan and full details here.

110 Duane Street, #3
$6,500,000

Tribeca | Condominium | 5 Bedrooms, 3 Baths | 4,000 ft²

110 Duane Street, #3 (The Agency Brokerage)

From the Listing: This exceptional loft offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and historic charm, providing an unparalleled living experience in one of New York City's most coveted neighborhoods. The sprawling open-concept layout seamlessly integrates the living, dining, and kitchen areas, allowing for functional and efficient living with smart technology throughout. The Boffi-designed kitchen is complete with high-end Miele appliances, Dornbacht fixtures, grey travertine backsplash, and white quartz countertops making this home perfect for entertaining. The primary bedroom features an enormous walk-in closet, with a secret door that brings you to the magnificent primary bathroom with a standing shower, separate tub, and double vanity sink. See floor plan and full details here.

260 Park Avenue South, #9C
$6,995,000 (-6.7%)

Flatiron/Union Square | Condominium | 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths | 3,287 ft²

260 Park Avenue South, #9C (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: Spanning the coveted southwestern corner of Park Avenue South, providing a dramatic apex that overlooks Gramercy Park and beyond, this residence has been renovated to the most exacting standards befitting its location and views. Four oversized bedrooms and four oversized full baths, are complemented by the scale and proportion of the home's common spaces, showcasing superb ceiling heights and outstanding natural light throughout the entire floor plan. Deep-set windows flank the great room spanning over 36 feet, and the entire kitchen has been reimagined with Calacatta marble countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, and custom cabinetry with well-planned storage and easy access for growing needs. The primary bedroom wing provides exceptional privacy due to its split bedroom layout. The home provides automatic window treatments and an integrated sound system, as well as a fully integrated Lutron A/V system. See floor plan and full details here.

4 Bedford Street, #Building
$7,750,000 (-22.1%)

Greenwich Village | Townhouse | 5 Bedrooms, 6+ Baths | 4,260 ft²

4 Bedford Street, #Building (Compass)

From the Listing: 4 Bedford Street combines the timeless sophistication of a historic townhouse with modern finishes for comfortable living all in a LEED Gold-certified green home. From the street level, you are welcomed into the large great room with an open-plan kitchen plus a living and dining room. Sliding doors lead out to an expansive deck overlooking the lovely garden which is ideal for entertaining and comfortable living. The kitchen features custom cabinetry creating incredible storage and a large island with a waterfall quartzite counter, and breakfast bar. The convenience of an elevator takes you to the top of the home. Additional features of this spectacular residence include original reclaimed joists which now encompass the floors, central HVAC, convenient smart home technology for AC, audio, and any additional features you may wish to add such as motorized window treatments. Video intercom panels are conveniently placed on every floor and the backyard and rooftop are wired for sound and all audio-visual. See floor plan and full details here.

120 Gramercy Hill, #THA
$9,950,000

Flatiron/Union Square | Condominium | 5 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 4,600 ft²

120 Gramercy Hill, #THA (Leslie J Garfield & Co Inc)

From the Listing: With over 4,600 square feet of interior space, an amazing park-like 1,700-square-foot backyard, and an additional 600 square feet of deeded basement storage space, this NoMad home is a must-see. The recent masterful renovation designed by renowned architect West Chin mixes a modern aesthetic of exotic woods, steel, marble and Corian with European finishes and custom architectural millwork throughout. As you enter, the automated steel and glass privacy door opens into the expansive first floor, with the living room on one end, the media room on the other end and centered is the stunning Boffi chef's kitchen. The entire floor's south-facing exposure features floor-to-ceiling stackable glass doors leading to the backyard creating a true indoor-outdoor living experience. As the sun sets, the outdoor kitchen's infrared chef's BBQ provides an opportunity to entertain amongst the stars with music streaming from the landscaped speakers controlled by the Savant smart-home system, which provides full access and control to the home's lighting, audio, video, security and central HVAC systems. A Bocci chandelier lights the stairs to the second floor's primary and bedroom wings, while natural light radiates into the 5 bedrooms that are flanked by 10 south and west-facing windows. See floor plan and full details here.

The Stanhope, #7S
$12,700,000 (-5.6%)

Carnegie Hill | Condop | 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths | 4,357 ft²

The Stanhope, #7S (Douglas Elliman Real Estate)

From the Listing: With a thoughtful renovation completed in the winter of 2020, this home lies at the intersection of uptown elegance and downtown style. A semi-private elevator landing flows graciously into a magnificent entrance featuring an Italian Rosewood gallery. From there, you are drawn into an expansive sun-drenched living room, and adjoining dining room all which open up to provide 42 feet of frontage overlooking Fifth Avenue, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and partial Central Park views. Adjacent to the living space is a huge, meticulously crafted 25-foot windowed gourmet eat-in kitchen. The bedroom wing of the home is along a beautiful hallway featuring a stunning recess lighted tray ceiling perfect for displaying art. A newly installed mobile operated Savant Smart Home system controls the audio/visual, Crestron lighting, motorized shades and year-round four pipe heating and cooling system independently zoned by room. Identifiable features and forms include Santos Mahogany Floors, exquisite wood carpentry, dramatic beams, wide soffits and coffered ceiling panels, seamlessly blending an old world elegance, scale and detail with a bright open loft-like entertaining expanse and a wonderfully distinct feel. See floor plan and full details here.

182 East 75th Street, #House
$13,100,000

Lenox Hill | Townhouse | 6+ Bedrooms, 6+ Baths | 5,850 ft²

182 East 75th Street, #House (Sothebys International Realty)

From the Listing: Perfectly located on a picturesque and tree-lined street in the heart of the Upper East Side, this splendid townhouse presents a glorious combination of period detail, an attractive and thoughtful renovation, and modern convenience. Accessed through a wrought iron gate, the front steps lead to the very welcoming entrance hall and the staircase to the upper floors. The cheerful and cozy dining room is nearby, through an entrance with wide pocket doors. Connected via a pantry and wet bar, the pristine white kitchen is equipped with state-of-the art appliances, Carrara marble countertops, and a dining banquette and has the added benefit of a wood-burning fireplace. A French door leads to a terrace with steps down to the garden. Above, a pretty and well-proportioned living room has a coffered ceiling, a wet bar, and a wood-burning fireplace. All systems, such as multiple-zone central air conditioning, Control4 smart home automation system with alarm, and lighting have been upgraded and meticulously maintained. In addition, hardwood floors, custom millwork, and painstakingly restored original features underpin an elegance that extends to every detail. See floor plan and full details here.

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In this article:

234 East 14th Street, #3A
$799,999 (-5.9%)

One Brooklyn Bridge Park, #701
$1,400,000

245 West 24th Street, #FIRSTFL
$1,499,000

209 East 56th Street, #11PQR
$1,995,000

Cannon Point South, #9F
$2,500,000

133 West 14th Street, #6
$2,750,000 (-8.3%)

Select which properties are of interest to you:

Holtz House, #7R
$4,225,000

200 Mercer Street, #4B
$4,500,000

Gracie Towers, #15E
$4,750,000

130 East 38th Street, #NA
$4,875,000

110 Duane Street, #3
$6,500,000

260 Park Avenue South, #9C
$6,995,000 (-6.7%)

4 Bedford Street, #Building
$7,750,000 (-22.1%)

120 Gramercy Hill, #THA
$9,950,000

The Stanhope, #7S
$12,700,000 (-5.6%)

182 East 75th Street, #House
$13,100,000

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