It is obviously easier to 'just' open things.

But if locking mechanisms or hidden compartments,

mechanical features and opening by remote control

(not by key) would be useful.

 

The idea of a room, or any personal objects

is either about use, or retaining sense of privacy.

 

Which also assigns a certain meaning to its importance.

Whatever they find it worthy of keep hidden.

 

And... that triggers people to create something more valuable

in a way as well. Be it writing or something of sophistication.

 

That is my argument anyway.

 

And I guess most people search for very high quality

antiques for those reasons.

 

And these aren't manufactured so well today because...

they are often customized, crafted by the hand.

 

But if automation is possible these days...

 

Bring back the renaissance, victorian, whichever era

prior to the digital age... add some sense of permanence and mystery

to things...... or am i forcing it? i don't think it's a niche market...