The New Luxury Wealthy Homebuyers Ditch Tech for Simplicity

In today’s luxury real estate market, the newest status symbol isn’t a home that talks back — it’s one that stays silent. From Aspen to the Hamptons, elite buyers are increasingly seeking out tech-free retreats that offer an escape from digital noise. These homes often come with no Wi-Fi routers, zero smart speakers, and even shielded bedrooms to block electromagnetic signals.

Architects and agents report an uptick in requests for what they’re calling “digital dead zones” — spaces where phones lose signal and no screens are in sight. One Malibu estate featured in the article boasts no built-in smart devices, hand-operated window shades, and an emphasis on open-air courtyards designed to promote natural rhythms over artificial ones.

Buyers aren’t just avoiding technology — they’re replacing it with features that ground them in the real world. Think libraries instead of media rooms, wood-burning fireplaces over digital climate control, and even record players replacing Bluetooth speakers. In one recent $30 million sale in Montecito, the buyer specifically requested no smart thermostats and banned any device with voice recognition.

This shift reflects deeper concerns beyond aesthetics. Security experts note growing anxiety among the wealthy about data breaches and surveillance. Meanwhile, wellness consultants hired by these homeowners point to rising interest in electromagnetic field (EMF) reduction, natural light, and tactile design. One designer revealed that her client spent more than $100,000 customizing a kitchen without a single touchscreen.

Ultimately, the luxury of the moment is freedom from digital dependency. As one broker put it, “In a world where everything can be connected, disconnection is the real privilege.”