We use two Google Home devices, one full and one mini, to voice control thermostats, lights, etc via a Samsung Smart Things hub. Very happy with it all. We only put the things that really matter to us on the smart switches or outlets, probably 5 total. All told, about US$300.

Hi Marisha

Another option for controlling lights, temp and music (such as Sonos) with voice control would be via Lutron's Caseta Smart bridge and dimmers. We at Square Peg A/V use Alexa for our voice control. Although Google Home is a great product, we believe Amazon will always be a step ahead in technology. However, either voice control product will work just fine. The Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge connects directly to your switch or router via an Ethernet cable. The in-wall dimmers replace your existing switches or dimmers and no additional electrical wiring is needed. You can also add a "Sonos Connect" to a whole house amplifier and have that turn on via a voice command as well. The App is free and simple to use. Program all your products into this one App such as NEST, Ecobee, Honeywell and Sonos. Create a "scene" name, ask Alexa to "turn-on" the scene to control your lights and start the music, very cool and very inexpensive.

Frank P.

Square Peg A/V

@squarepega/v Why do you recommend that Leutron Smartbridge over Samsung Smartthings hub? Is that what you suggested? (Newbie here)

Hi Karen

Good question - it's not that I prefer the Lutron Smart Bridge over Samsung, it was just my recommendation for the initial inquiry regarding integrating climate control, lighting and music from one App and in my opinion the Lutron Caseta Bridge seemed to fit all of the requirements. Having said that - the Samsung Hub can do some pretty cool things as well and can work in parallel with the Lutron Smart Bridge. Example, you can use Samsung Smart-Things water sensors to work with Z-wave water shut-off valves (like "Leak Gopher") to shut off your water supply in case of a problem with plumbing, water heater or leaks around the house. So in general, it was just my personal preference since most home media integrators are Lutron Pros.

Check out FAQ at Lutron below...

What are the benefits of integrating Caséta Wireless with a SmartThings system?

Integrating Caséta Wireless with SmartThings allows you to automate your lights and shades alongside
additional smart devices like sensors, locks, cameras, and more. For example, add a SmartThings
Multipurpose Sensor to your entryway door and you can you can create a routine that turns on a few
lights when you open the door in the evening. Or create a routine that turns off all the lights and closes
the shades in the living room when the SmartThings Motion Sensor in the room no longer detects any
motion.

-Frank P

This is something I'm looking to do also. Good ideas here! We have Alexa running the whole house sound system, and security. I'd like to add some lights/plugs also!