Until recently, we have always had to think about everything we want our house to do. If we have wanted it to be warmer or cooler, lighter or darker we have had to turn the heating or lightning on or off. However, for some families already living in 'intelligent' houses, daily life has changed in many ways.They don't worry about turning off the light or locking the door before they go out. The families in 'intelligent' houses don't have to do as much work to keep comfortable-and the hi-tech kitchen means it isn't difficult to prepare family meals.