2009 is coming to a close, so I thought it would be appropriate to look back at the homes I’ve featured during the year.

Surprisingly, I remembered at least one interesting tidbit about each and every one, and we’re talking dozens of homes—including many winners and finalists from our annual Home of the Year Awards program.

It’s hard to forget the mom who used her video distribution system to see from a touchpanel in the kitchen what the kids were watching on TV or Googling on the computer. Then there’s the rec room that transforms into a full-fledged disco at the touch of a button. And the record-playing jukebox that feeds a multiroom audio system.

There were plenty of other memorable setups in 2009, but here are a few that really stood out. Click on our slideshow to see our 9 Favorite Automation Tricks of ‘09.

Lisa Montgomery - Contributing Writer

Lisa Montgomery has been writing about home technology for 15 years, with a focus on the impact of electronics on a modern lifestyle.