How the robotic vacuum became a home design staple

Home design in recent years has seen a revolution that blends technological advancements with aesthetic needs. In the past, interior design focused mainly on furniture, color schemes, and lighting. Today, technology has become integral to home layout. These trends stem from a desire for maximum convenience while maintaining sleek and innovative design. Appliances once hidden in cabinets or tucked away are now taking center stage, and in some cases, becoming a core part of the home’s visual appeal.

This shift is especially evident with the introduction of robotic vacuum-mops, which have become more than just cleaning devices. Over the past year, these devices have transformed into design elements that enhance living spaces, including the living room. Robotic vacuums have significantly evolved, now performing both vacuuming and mopping autonomously and integrating seamlessly into home decor. Interior designers and architects increasingly recognize robotic vacuums as integral to home planning, eliminating the need for a specific closet or niche for cleaning tools, as was common until recently.

Manufacturers of robotic vacuum-mops have noted this trend and invested in stylish designs that blend harmoniously with home decor. New models feature modern designs and clean lines, while docking stations, once purely functional, now complement various interior styles. For instance, some stations suit neutral-colored modern spaces, while others match rustic homes, adorned with materials and accents that blend into the aesthetic.

Imanuel Varulker, CEO of Ronlight Technologies, which imports various robotic vacuum brands like Narwal and Ecovacs Robotics to Israel, shares insights on this trend: “Understanding that a robotic vacuum can be part of the design rather than just a cleaning tool changes the way people view home decor. Today, when consumers choose a robotic vacuum, they look beyond just its technical capabilities—they consider how it will complement their home. A carefully designed device that fits well into the home elevates the entire space.”

This trend is also reflected in the approach of interior designers and architects, who now incorporate docking stations into design plans from the earliest stages of a project. Designers treat docking stations as full design elements, crafting spaces for them to exude warmth, convenience, and modernity. Whether it’s a nook color-coordinated with walls and furniture or a dedicated wall shared with tech items like a TV and game console, the docking station has earned a place of honor in the modern home.

Are you seeing a notable shift in consumer attitudes toward robotic vacuums in your industry?

Imanuel: “Absolutely. The robotic vacuum has become a status symbol—a statement of smart, modern living. Homeowners take pride in their advanced vacuums, placing them in prominent areas of the home, something unthinkable just a few years ago. The vacuum, once hidden away, is now an essential part of the home’s public space. Users take pride in its design, quality materials, and advanced features.”

“Beyond providing a smart cleaning solution, the robotic vacuum reflects the broader shift in home design in recent years—a trend that combines technology with aesthetics, focusing on creating a modern home environment. This development shows that household appliances are no longer just practical items but indicators of lifestyle and high design standards. Experts predict that in the future, docking stations will offer additional smart features, such as controlling other smart home systems, further cementing their role as design-oriented tech hubs.”

Ultimately, investing in a robotic vacuum is not just an investment in home cleanliness but also a design statement that modernizes and updates the home. What was once simply a “work item” has become part of the home’s design language, illustrating the fascinating blend of technology and aesthetics.