Our client: Whilst exhibiting at a local show, the client visited our stand looking for a better understanding of what technology was available for a property they were building, and also which technology they would personally see benefit in installing. After a lengthy conversation with one of our directors, it was agreed that a follow up meeting and demonstration would take place, to assist the client in developing a brief.
The Brief: The client was particularly excited and enthusiastic about having either a dedicated cinema room or high-performance family room surround sound system, along with a whole house control system that could integrate services such as; lighting, heating, audio distribution, gate entry and security. Due to sometimes working from home, a strong Wi-Fi network was also extremely important.
The Solution: We initially focused on the lighting control, as this was an area the client was particularly interested in, collaborating closely with their designer to agree the best solution. We specified Rako Controls to work with their amazing light fixtures, and then integrated this with the Control4 system, allowing the client to easily create and select beautiful, pre-programmed lighting scenes for any occasion, with minimal effort.
The client was also keen to have a comprehensive security solution that integrated seamlessly with the Control4 platform, so intelligent CCTV cameras with AI capabilities were chosen. This meant that the cameras on the exterior of the property could detect motion past a pre-determined point on the driveway, sending the client a notification to say a trip wire has been activated, alongside a video recording of the movement. We also provided a smart intercom solution at the gate entrance, giving the client complete control of who can gain access to the property, via an app on their mobile phones and Control4 touch screens in the house. Not only this, but it allows the client to see who is at the gate without having to disclose their presence.
For the whole house audio system, we used Bowers & Wilkins in-ceiling speakers, allowing the client’s home to keep the contemporary and minimal feel, as they fit discreetly in the ceiling with a very slim bezel. Externally, Bowers & Wilkins weatherproof on-wall speakers were chosen around the garden seating area, making it a great space for entertaining during the warmer months.
The client gave us 5 of their favourite films, and we commissioned the design of artwork for the client to choose from, all using acoustically transparent fabric in order to not disrupt the audio quality coming from the hidden speakers behind some of them.
At the heart of the home, we designed and incorporated a family media room, with a 75” Sony UHD TV and surround sound system with Artcoustic speakers, integrated with Control4, allowing all aspects of the audio, video and lighting to be easily controlled.
Technical Specification:
Control system: Control4
Local room control equipment: Control4 remotes, Control4 in-wall touch screens, Control4 mobile app and Rako lighting keypads
HVAC: Heatmiser Neo integrated with Control4
Lighting control: Rako Controls integrated with Control4
Security: Intelligent day & night CCTV cameras
Access control: 2N audio video gate entry integrated with Control4
Audio distribution: Control4
Internal speakers: Bowers & Wilkins in-ceiling speakers
External speakers: Bowers & Wilkins weatherproof on-wall speakers
Media room: 75” Sony UHD TV, Denon amplification & processing, Artcoustic 5.1 surround sound with access to Sky Q Ultra HD and 4K Apple TV
Wifi: Ubiquiti
