Back in the summer, we had a new client contact us; he had bought the house of his dreams and was desperate for it to become an intelligent home. However, there was very little pre-wire and provision within the house – unfortunately cases like this are proving more and more common, instead of future proofing homes some developers are trying to keep their costs low and install the minimum.
At Smarthomes we love a challenge! So, we went away to source the most resilient retrofit proiducts from our established manufactures and focused on planning.
Our first challenge was the lighting control. We utilised control 4’s wireless ZigBee keypads to take control of all the principle lighting circuits within the house, these rooms included the living areas, the master bedroom suite, hallways and landings. Giving the client the ability to switch a room on or off from touch of a button whilst creating scenes and integrating music at the same time. These are all then linked back to the AV equipment rack.
Our solution to wireless audio, Yamaha MusicCast wireless audio speakers. A mixture of Yamaha MusicCast soundbars and portable room speakers, including the remarkable YSP5600! Creating a full Dolby Atmos listening experience. Luckily for us, at every TV point there was sufficient cabling to be able to centrally locate all the clients video feeds and using a HDMI video matrix distribute multiple sources. It was far from ideal but with the best equipment the solution was found.
As well as bringing together all their home control needs the C4 system included a wireless alarm system and full CCTV system, all running on Control4 OS3 from a single app. This has meant the client has control of the whole house whether at home using the touch panels or remotely via his phone.
The project was encompassed by interior design and furnishing by our in-house interiors department. The client wanted new furniture throughout the house upon moving in, so with a short timescale and lead in, we began planning, specifying, gathering samples and outlining. We drafted in our bespoke cabinet maker to build fitted furniture around the new TVs installed. Our shopping list of fabrics and furniture was purchased, windows measured, and curtains were in production. Installation was carried out over a matter of days, allowing the client to move in, with a few remaining bespoke items, tweaks and changes as the client lived a used the house.
Retro fit options are available and Smarthomes will find a solution to your needs no matter what your project. For your free, no obligation quote- Contact us today!
