We’ve designed and installed hundreds of smart homes across Tampa Bay—but the best way to understand their impact is straight from the homeowners themselves.
So we asked five Hive clients: “What do you love most about your smart home?”
Here’s what they said—along with the tech they’re using and links to explore the same upgrades for your home.
1. Monica G. – Carrollwood
“Our blackout shades are amazing. They lower every night before sunset, and I don’t even have to touch a thing. It’s the quietest luxury in the house.”
Installed Features:
- Motorized blackout shades in bedrooms and media room
- Pre-programmed sunset automation
- Voice control via Alexa
Why it matters: Monica works late hours and wanted a quiet, consistent routine that didn’t rely on apps or remotes. Now she gets better sleep and total convenience.
2. Brian + Kelsey R. – Davis Islands
“We host people a lot. Having music in every room and the backyard—plus lighting scenes for dinner or game night—is next-level.”

Installed Features:
- Multi-room Sonos audio (indoor + outdoor)
- Landscape lighting + deck path lights
- “Entertain Mode” scene: lighting, music, climate
Why it matters: For families who love to entertain, automation creates mood and ease—so they can focus on guests, not gear.
3. Lisa M. – Hyde Park
“I live in a 100-year-old bungalow and didn’t want to gut the walls. Hive gave me smart lighting, shades, and security—all wireless, all clean.”
Installed Features:
- Wireless lighting scenes with Lutron Caséta
- Retrofit motorized shades
- Hidden Wi-Fi security cameras + smart locks
Why it matters: Lisa’s project proves you don’t need to renovate to live smart. We specialize in retrofits that preserve historic charm.
4. Jeff T. – Westchase
“Our kids can’t lose their keys anymore—smart locks + app access changed our mornings completely.”

Installed Features:
- Smart locks with temporary codes
- Door sensors + doorbell camera
- “School Day” automation: lights, locks, thermostat
Why it matters: Jeff and his wife work full time. Smart access control gives peace of mind without handing out keys—or worrying about lost ones.
5. Tara L. – South Tampa
“I didn’t think I needed voice control—now I use it constantly. Shades, lights, music—it’s like living in the future.”
Installed Features:
- Alexa voice control for entire home
- Smart lighting and music scenes
- AV control in kitchen, bathroom, and primary suite
Why it matters: Voice control increases accessibility and convenience—and becomes second nature after just a few days.
Real Clients. Real Homes. Real Impact.
From historic homes in Hyde Park to family-focused spaces in Westchase and coastal builds on Davis Islands, Hive smart home clients are using automation to:
- Save time
- Add comfort
- Improve safety
- Simplify routines
We design around your life—not just the tech.
Book Your Smart Home Consultation
Join hundreds of happy clients and see what’s possible for your home.
Start My Project or Scheduled a Consultation.
FAQs
Q1: Can I get smart home features without a full remodel?
A: Yes. We specialize in retrofit-friendly solutions that don’t require opening walls or rewiring your entire home.
Q2: Do I need voice control to use a smart home?
A: Not at all. You can control everything through apps, touch panels, or automated scenes if you prefer.
Q3: Can I install in phases?
A: Absolutely. Many Hive clients start with 1–2 key services and expand later.
Q4: Will my smart home still work during storms or power outages?
A: Yes. We install battery backups and surge protection for key systems.
Q5: How long does installation take?
A: Most core systems are installed in 1–2 weeks depending on your home and scope.
Hive Smart Home
Smart Home Design | Automation | Shades | Audio | Lighting | Security
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