In this paper, the authors present a low cost and flexible home control and monitoring system using an embedded microprocessor and microcontroller, with IP connectivity for accessing and controlling devices and appliances remotely using Smartphone application. The proposed system does not require a dedicated server PC with respect to similar systems and offers a novel communication protocol to monitor and control the home environment with more than just the switching functionality. To demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of this system, devices such as light switches, power plug, temperature sensor and current sensor can be integrated with the home control system.