Welcome to the Summer Issue of Intelligent Homes Magazine, where we embark on a journey through the exciting world of smart home automation and luxury entertainment experiences. At Intelligent Homes, our mission is to illuminate the possibilities that modern technology brings to our living spaces. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just beginning to explore the realm of smart homes, this issue is packed with insights and inspiration to transform your living environment.
In this edition, we delve into the innovative and immersive aspects of home automation that are redefining our everyday lives. We examine the world of home cinema. Imagine a space where the magic of the big screen is brought to life in the comfort of your own home. We explore the latest in high-definition projectors, surround sound systems and plush seating arrangements that can turn any room into a personal theatre. Our experts provide tips on design and installation, ensuring that your movie nights are nothing short of spectacular.
As the summer sun invites us outdoors, our section on exterior
Intelligent Choices
AV experiences showcases how to extend your entertainment beyond the walls of your home. From weatherproof speakers to outdoor projectors, we highlight the best technologies to create an alfresco entertainment oasis. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, these innovations can enhance your outdoor living spaces.
Smart lighting is another cornerstone of the modern intelligent home. In this issue, we explore how advanced lighting solutions can dramatically alter the ambiance of your home. From automated mood lighting that adjusts throughout the day to voice-activated controls that offer convenience at your fingertips, we cover the latest trends and technologies. Learn how to customise your lighting to enhance both aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency.
Home security remains a top priority for many homeowners, and this issue brings you the latest advancements in this vital area. We examine cutting-edge security
systems that integrate with your smart home setup, providing peace of mind with features such as real-time monitoring, remote access and smart locks. Our experts offer guidance on selecting and installing a system tailored to your specific needs.
As you explore the pages of this magazine, I hope you find inspiration and ideas that excite you about the future of your home. If any of the content resonates with you and you’re eager to bring these innovations to life, I encourage you to reach out to your local smart home installer. Their expertise can help you navigate the myriad options and implement the best solutions for your lifestyle.
Thank you for joining us in this exploration of intelligent living.
Warm regards,
Daniel J Sait, Editor-in-Chief, Intelligent Homes
Getting in touch
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Daniel J Sait
dan@allthingsmedialtd.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Ian Kitchener
ian@allthingsmedialtd.com
PUBLISHER
David Kitchener
david@allthingsmedialtd.com
STUDIO MANAGER
Mark Weller
mark@allthingsmedialtd.com
ACCOUNTS
susan@allthingsmedialtd.com
Intelligent Homes, Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Chatham, Kent ME5 8UD
The editors and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. Whilst we make every effort to ensure that everything is factually correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur.
In all matters, the editor’s decision is final. Editorial contributions to Intelligent Homes magazine are welcomed, and the editor reserves the right to alter or abridge text prior to the publication. All articles are copyright and remain the property of Intelligent Homes magazine.
Intelligent Homes Contents Summer Issue 2024
A world of luxury, control and entertainment awaits!
Welcome to the world of luxury smart homes and high-performance audio-visual systems. Here we explain just what this fantastic sector can offer you to make your house more of a home!
The systems and services available from the smart home and luxury AV industry are created to enhance fun and family time as well increase the efficiency, atmosphere, design and security of your home. The experts who work in this area specialise in understanding all of today’s home technologies and how to
integrate them into your home to a specification decided in consultation with you, your family and contractors working on your behalf, such as an interior designer or architect.
The amount of technology available in our homes is increasing, and it can get confusing which ones to turn to that will genuinely make
home life better, more efficient and more fun, so turn to an expert to curate all of this available technology to make something truly unique for your needs. You would not attempt to do your own plumbing, landscape gardening or car servicing, so why deny the technology in your home the expert attention it requires? Here we present a few of the options. Which ones sound suitable for your lifestyle, home and family?
Home cinemas
Often undertaken during renovation or building, although retro-fit is entirely possible, a whole house automation system will provide one interface through which you will be able to control the entertainment, lighting, heating/air conditioning, energy usage, communication and security of your home.
Home cinemas are the ultimate in-home luxury entertainment experience. Courtesy of MAVEN
Music and movies
The types of systems this level of control brings under your spell include multi-room music and video delivery, giving you control of all your favourite content, where and whenever you require it. Regardless of whether you want to watch TV, access the internet, or interact with your music or video collection, everything can be bought intuitively to you whenever you need it.
Smart lighting and shading systems
Lighting control systems assist with security and efficiency, but also allow you to control the look and mood of your home. Manually or automatically, your home becomes a haven of beautiful aesthetics and efficiency. Smart shading works in concert with the lighting to control ambient light levels, improve privacy, security and efficiency too.
Smart security
Intelligent security systems allow you to precisely control access to your home, areas within the home and check the view of CCTV cameras from inside the property or when you are away from home over the internet.
Intercom systems allow the family to communicate easily if you are in a large property.
Exterior systems
Don’t neglect your treasured exterior spaces. With today’s technology, many of the listening, watching and lighting experiences you enjoy in your home can also be experienced outside in your grounds and gardens.
Home control and automation
Either created in a dedicated space or woven lovingly into your existing living space, a home cinema is the
best form of entertainment the 21st century has to offer. Watching movies or other content such as concerts and sporting events will take on a whole new level with unforgettable immersive experiences, matched only by the very best commercial cinemas. Any style of room and any type of home can experience this fantastically fun and impressive make-over. Either have your system hidden inside the fabric of the room so it only becomes apparent it is there at all when the system is called upon, or enter your own dedicated cinema that offers total immersion into your favourite entertainment choices.
Courtesy of Modus Vivendi and K-array
21st century tech allows for wonderful viewing and listening experiences outside too! Courtesy of Future Automation
Hi-Fi listening rooms
Are you a fan of just kicking back and listening to your favourite music? Today’s experts can design for you the perfect space to enjoy high-quality music, be it via your treasured vinyl collection, CDs or any of the highquality streaming services now available. Hi-Fi systems are in a golden era where they can use the best traditional approaches combined with today’s digital technology to offer music lovers unparalleled quality and convenience.
Rock solid networks
How much of today’s home life is dictated by how good your home network/Wi-Fi is? If this rings any bells with you, having an expert come and install a modern advanced network in your home is a total game-changer. Not only does a solid network underpin many of the systems a smart home expert can install for you, it makes everyday tasks such as scrolling the internet or watching
streaming services reach the level of quality they should be at. Never experience the spinning wheel of death again!
Choose what works for you!
A whole house system gives you the latest entertainment, efficiency and security technology in an easy to control overarching system that
the whole family can use and enjoy. However, it is entirely possible to take any one of these themes, say a multi-room music or lighting control system, and have just that installed. Talk to your installer and they will provide you with whatever your needs and desires require; many different systems and price points are available.
Sophisticated interiors are enhanced with skillfully designed automated lighting systems. Courtesy of Perfect Integration
Courtesy of Inspired Dwellings
DCI Cinema: Nobody Does It Better!
Prestige Audio, one of the UK’s longest established and award-winning home cinema installers, explains the concept behind Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI) systems for the home: the ultimate in enjoying movie magic.
Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI) was created in 2002 and is a set of performance standards created by some of the world’s most powerful, respected, and successful content creators including Disney, Paramount, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Universal, and Warner Bros. Studios. The idea was to create a set of specifications that would manage movie and content creation, distribution, and playback in the highest possible quality. A DCI home cinema follows these specifications, delivering a guarantee that owners are enjoying genuine state-of-the-art performance as powerful and precise as anything available anywhere. Any equipment installed into a DCI cinema must meet stringent performance standards that ensure movies and other content are presented with unparalleled quality and consistency. Becoming
DCI Certified means the equipment has passed exacting independent testing to make sure it can deliver the standard of performance required. Many of the world’s best content creators enjoy this level of performance in their homes, from directors to producers, and so when you invest in a DCI home cinema, you are getting the same level of performance that is enjoyed by the content creators themselves.
At Prestige Audio, we operate at the very highest performance levels possible for each customer and budget, but when only the very best will do, our team is proud to be able to offer DCI home cinema systems as the ultimate statement in performance. The benefits of a DCI home cinema are myriad and do not end at achieving the very best performance levels; this system also enables owners to enjoy
movies the same day that they are released in commercial cinemas in the comfort of their own home!
This level of exclusivity transcends traditional home cinema experiences, whether within the confines of your luxury home, a shared residential screening room, or a boutique hotel. For many customers, enjoying a trip to a commercial cinema may be undesirable or challenging for many reasons around privacy and security. A DCI home cinema not only delivers an unmatched cinematic experience directly into your home on release day but offers the chance to create a completely bespoke highperformance environment for your friends and family with customised seating or bar setups. The result is a beautiful room that matches the desired aesthetics for the space, as well as delivering the best performing system available today.
DCI Cinema Design
Our highly experienced and dedicated team of home cinema experts take enormous pride in creating unique, tailored entertainment experiences that perfectly complement your unique vision and style. We know and fully appreciate that every residence is distinctive, which is why we work in partnership with you and other crucial partners such as interior designers to create solutions that seamlessly integrate state-ofthe-art technology with your own personal style. You get the very
best home cinema performance, presented in a space that embraces your personality and aesthetic preferences.
Sourcing Premium Equipment
At Prestige Audio, we have access to top-tier DCI Cinema equipment and technology, meaning access to the finest audio and visual components is guaranteed. Partnering with exclusive and restricted access highperformance suppliers allows us to offer the latest advancements directly into your home now and in the future.
Seamless Installation
At the core of our service is the flawless installation of your DCI Cinema system. Once you have made the choice of investing in these wonderful experiences, you want to know that the creation of your new DCI home cinema will be seamless and efficient
Our experienced, fully trained and certified technicians manage the setup, calibration and integration of the equipment into your home, guaranteeing an exceptional audiovisual experience. All you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the very best audio-visual entertainment experience available anywhere on the planet.
Recognising the uniqueness of each private residence or commercial space such as private members clubs, hotels or luxury apartment blocks, DCI Cinema solutions seamlessly integrate into any space. When only the very best will do, Prestige Audio awaits to usher into your life the best in-home entertainment experience available today.
More Information
Prestige Audio prestigeaudio.co.uk
Engaging With Your Smart Home Future
The Custom Electronics Design and Installation Association (CEDIA) introduces the burgeoning and exciting smart home sector to you and underscores its crucial role in developing the concept and making it accessible for you, the homeowner.
Smart home technologies continue to gain significant traction within our lives. Consumer demand for smart, connected technologies and services in the average home is increasing by the day as all of us recognise how they can make home life much more comfortable, secure, energy efficient, entertaining, and also more productive for home working.
A professional Smart Home Technology Integrator can make sure that the smart home system for your property is professionally designed and installed with technologies integrated to optimise performance, reliability, and ease of use. They will also deliver a system that is perfectly attuned to your lifestyle and family needs and ensure that the technology blends with the interior design scheme within your home.
The 2023 Professional Smart Home Market Analysis from CEDIA gives a fascinating insight into the scale and likely direction of this fast-growing professionally installed sector.
Currently, the UK market is estimated to be worth £2.9 billion and is supported by favourable industry growth projections for the next 12 months, with more than 3,700 professional integration businesses designing and installing integrated smart systems for consumers across the country.
The four business categories expected to grow the most over the next 12 months are home cinema, media rooms, outdoor AV systems, and lighting/shading.
The demand for dedicated home cinemas is already at an all-time high. These private cinema rooms
are becoming sought after by more and more people, accustomed to the enhanced entertainment experience that can be provided and enjoyed by a great entertainment set-up in the comfort of their own home.
The picture quality delivered by a high-performance 4K projection system is quite breathtaking, and supported by the performance of exceptional immersive sound systems such as Dolby Atmos, the result is a visceral, emotional, and completely immersive connection with big screen movie or sports-watching that is just incredible.
It’s clear that the home is now a multi-functional space that provides a place of rest and relaxation as well as a secure and practical home office, learning environment, cinema, gaming room, and fitness suite.
Professionally installed smart technology taps into this trend, by enabling multi-purpose use within the one space. Take media rooms as an example. These are versatile, multi-media and multi-functional spaces that can work as a home working environment during the day, but also provide a great area for TV viewing, listening to music, and movie watching or children’s gaming on a drop down screen and projector system. Their popularity is growing. Media Room design and installation requires the services of professional smart home integration companies
to make sure that the technology can deliver on the high-level of versatility, reliability, and ease of use benefits they demand.
We’re also seeing growth in outdoor lighting and entertainment systems. This technology helps people to be sociable and connect with their garden spaces in a positive way. Again, the popularity here is driven by the demand to make the most of every space in a property. Technology here is also bringing significant wellness and mental health benefits to consumers who can enjoy their outdoor spaces in greater comfort.
Meanwhile, smart, easily controllable lighting and automated blinds are another growth area within the smart home. As well as delivering more efficient lighting using dimming technology and location awareness, lighting control systems can offer so much more. If integrated into the wider home automation system, they can bring other elements of the home together for ease of use, all controlled in ‘scenes’. A well-designed and controlled lighting system has the capabilities to add glamour, ambience, and space-magnifying qualities to any home. When integrated with motorised blinds, they can also deliver human centric lighting, which matches the homebuyer’s circadian rhythm to the natural daylight of the sun, improving our sense of wellbeing.
Wellness touches every facet of the home and we see it becoming more and more important in the future. Homeowners are actively seeking solutions that can enhance air quality, optimise lighting, control temperature, and manage humidity to create an environment that boosts physical and mental health.
Image courtesy of BNC Technology (bnctechnology.co.za)
Image courtesy of Knektd (knektd.com)
In short, all these technologiesaudio, video, lighting, blinds – and others such as security systems, heating control, data networking, and more - can be integrated so that they can be conveniently controlled and operated. The more smart technologies that are connected, the greater the demand on a home’s network and its wiring infrastructure.
Integrating smart technology and systems on a single control platform without compromising the home’s decor demands the skills of a professional — someone who has the technical ability to bring everything together in a synergistic ‘whole home’ experience. This is where CEDIA members step in.
Your smart home should be easy and seamless to use; professionally designed and installed, reliable, and secure.
Whether you are building from scratch or renovating your home with smart technology, allow time and budget for expert advice, system design, rewiring, and installation to meet these goals.
CEDIA members understand that technology in the home is a significant investment and will be able to advise on the smart home solutions that are right for you, your lifestyle, and your budget. They are
the best-informed professionals and trained in the latest technologies, design, project management, and installation techniques to ensure the best possible smart integration system for you.
Why use a smart home professional?
Rightly, homeowners want to ensure that they are working with a professionally trained, knowledgeable company and CEDIA members represent the world’s finest custom electronic design and integration companies.
CEDIA is the world’s only Association for Smart Home Professionals. They ensure your smart home is professionally installed, safe and secure, reliable, and easy to use.
As the oldest, largest, and an influential provider of education in the professional smart home industry, CEDIA has helped its members set the standard for design excellence, technical knowledge, and customer service.
The CEDIA Member of Excellence title is the highest status a member company can achieve from the home technology industry’s only accrediting organisation. Firstly, a firm must be a CEDIA Member for two years
and have a minimum of one CEDIA Certified smart home professional at the company.
These companies are truly the best of the best and the designation confirms it to customers, peers, and the rest of the world. CEDIA Members of Excellence can demonstrate measurable achievements in Continuing Education, Customer Service, and Community Outreach. As well as fulfilling these three primary requirements, CEDIA Members of Excellence also hold a verified record of award-winning craftmanship, and a dedication to achieving advanced industry certifications.
CEDIA Advanced Members have achieved the second highest status available for a member company. As with the Member of Excellence category, the company must have been a CEDIA Member for at least two years and have one staff member who is a CEDIA Certified smart home professional. These companies have proven to have distinctions in place to continue to raise the standard of the industry and have also achieved the Customer Service, Community Outreach, and Continuing Education designations required by CEDIA.
CEDIA offers a Finder Service on its website: https://cedia.org/finda-smart-home-installer. This allows homeowners to locate their nearest integrated technology professional.
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Floor Stand
Era 300
Arcade Fire!
This smoking hot project created by install company Maven underlines that smart home and luxury AV professionals don’t just create amazing automated homes and home cinemas, but also special projects like this room, where the owner wanted the ultimate in-home arcade. Game on!
Director at Maven, Rob Simmonds explains, “If ever there was a pure definition of an adults playground, this basement bar and games area has to be it. The initial brief was for the space to have a functioning bar area, ‘sports-bar-esque’ TV screens (without being tacky!) and a sound system that could be used for background music or deliver the potential to compete with nightclubs when it comes to party time.”
The system boasts automation and control features courtesy of home control platforms Control4, several screens to enjoy sports and other entertainment, a Kaleidescape highperformance media server, combined with atmospheric lighting courtesy of Lutron, not to mention the banks of genuine vintage arcade games that populate this Aladdin’s cave of fun.
The main bar/games area has six Artcoustic SL8-4 wall mounted loudspeakers complimented by four in ceiling speakers as fill-in audio to ensure there are no dead spots. A further four Artcoustic Impact 2 dual
10in long throw subwoofers cover the entire area with deep bass. Two are positioned to the rear of the room and two are recessed into the joinery columns flanking the bar at the front. These have acoustic treatment within
them, ensuring the bass is dispersed forward into the room with no leakage behind. The music reproduction in the space is next level and suits this space down to the ground.
Rob adds, “Custom grilles were made to match the wall speakers above, resulting in a perfect aesthetic finish. Access to all music streaming services and dedicated Kaleidescape music servers is via the in-wall Control4 10in touchscreen, or of course via the app or a beautiful Neeo remote control.
“Three Samsung 32in TVs are located behind the bar on mirrored panelling. These are able to display any of the 12 video sources available independently and each has its own dedicated Kaleidescape player. The reason for this is because the client has a lot of vintage sporting events such as classic football matches and boxing matches on their server, so when there is a sporting event or the big fight, the central screen will show the live fight for example, with the flanking screens replaying old fights as part of a homemade buildup to the main event, with the audio
of the central screen being played throughout the sound system.
“This is made simple to achieve with custom buttons programmed so the client can select the event and the system is then setup as a sequence with minimal effort and we have also programmed a simple swipe left or right to control either the left or right hand screen.”
Cool and cozy
In the corner there is a snug area with a sperate TV and Artcoustic 2.1 audio system (which can be linked to the main area’s system) dedicated for playing retro games consoles. Should the owner or any visitor want to play the real thing, there is an abundance of restored original arcade
Want the ultimate party space?
A smart home installer can create one just for you!
machines ranging from Paperboy, Afterburn, Outrun and Moto GP. There is also a fully working flight simulator machine – and all free to use! A pool table, air-hockey, table football and American ice hockey machines are also playable under the custom neonfrosted lighting. A short walk past a side room, currently home to six pinball machines, will eventually be a VR area with 360º moving floor.
Rob enthuses, “The audio system has to be heard to be believed – it is a monster! Walking around the area there is a very well-balanced audio, purposely at head height
and calibrated perfectly with the abundance of bass. The system in here is not fatiguing in any way even when turned up to a light fittingrattling level – which happens often!
“Speaking of which, all lighting is set to preset levels depending on whether the room is used for entertaining, gaming or nightclub mode! Frosted neon lighting over the arcade machines completes the retro yet modern feel to this area.
Furthermore, an ‘Arcades’ button on the Lutron lighting keypad activates all of the sockets for powering up all of the arcade machines, along with the
six pinball machines in the adjoining room. A simple double-tap of the ‘Room Off’ button not only fades all lighting off, but also shuts down the AV system along with all of the arcade machines – simple.
Rob concludes, “The client absolutely loves this area for entertaining and it gets used most days (and nights) as there is so much to do in here. You cannot help but become a child in here with all of the nostalgic arcade games and memorabilia.
“One of the most important things in this area is that it is so simple and easy to use. Too often if a system is complicated it immediately poses a sticking point so doesn’t get used. But with all of the bespoke customisation and ease of use built-in, whenever the client wants to add a feature to set the room up, it is simple to achieve. Although this is intentionally a fun room, there is a very serious system on-tap – as well as the beer behind the fully functioning bar!”
More Information
Maven maven.uk.com
The premier group partners with L-Acoustics for a spectacular new home theatre
Award-wining Indiana-based integrator and CEDIA Member, The Premier Group, created a high-performance, immersive audio system powered by L-Acoustics, a brand that’s trending in residential installations.
To underline that the smart home and home cinema phenomenon is a genuinely global one, IH presents a tour of this fantastic home in the U.S which includes a fantastic cinema based around L-Acoustics technology, which is also fully available in the UK!
“When we demonstrate a professional L-Acoustics sound system, customers quickly realise not only that this is what a concert is supposed to actually sound like, but it also has the characteristics of a real professional movie theatre. It’s so ‘right’, with a massive dynamic range that’s powerful, clean and provides so much energy. The reaction is visceral from clients who literally respond, ‘oh my, I have to experience this in my home’ as they did in this very special installation,” says Jason Barth, CEO of The Premier Group.
The Indianapolis area-based integrator is ranked in the Top 50 in the US, specialising in premium residential and commercial installations to an enviable client list
of customers. The company’s latest home theatre project leaves no detail to chance in terms of design and performance, with an impressive L-Acoustics audio solution perfectly
capturing Premier’s approach to excellence.
The Premier Group and L-Acoustics first began collaborating in the home and yacht space three years ago. With his background in the professional audio industry, Jason needed little convincing on the merits of L-Acoustics technologies in applications for the residential market.
“L-Acoustics is the global powerhouse in pro audio, so I was very familiar with their products,” says Jason. “When they showed me their solutions for the home and yacht market, it was a very emotional decision for me because I loved the brand so much and I knew so much about it right out of the gate. “They aren’t just an upstart company or a brand OEM manufacturing for someone else. They have the right suite of products for our customers, and they built all the support for this vertical under the L-Acoustics umbrella. I knew that it would be a great brand to offer our clients at Premier, and so it’s proving.”
The whole family can relax and enjoy high-performance sound and vision
In this latest installation, Premier worked with luxury interior design studio, Lantz Collective, and local builder, Hoss Homes, to create a multi-purpose room that works as a comfortable social and entertainment space as well as a fantastically immersive home theatre. The large area is subdivided in two with an attractive wet bar and sitting area to the rear and a 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos cinema with luxury seating for eight people to the front. The two spaces are divided by six swivel bar stools seated at two counter tops split in the middle overlooking the theatre.
Rich, pristine and powerful audio in this dynamic space is delivered by a winning combination of L-Acoustics X8 and X4i 2-way passive coaxial loudspeakers and Syva Low 12in subwoofers. Three X8 8in in-wall speakers provide the LCR channels with four ultra-compact X4i 4in in-wall speakers acting as the surround channels and a further four X4i 4in in-ceiling speakers providing height channels. Four additional L-Acoustics Syva Sub bring the bass in the low-frequency
effects (LFE) channels. All L-Acoustics speakers are quick and easy to install and integrate discreetly into the stunning interior while offering natural, premium sound quality, and a wide dispersion pattern. Two LA4X and two LA2Xi amplified controllers ensure the installation packs all the power needed for the space while providing professional audio grade reliability.
The L-Acoustics product line and the flexibility of the systems are warmly appreciated by professional installers of home cinema and audio visual systems. From the microsized X4i and slim colinear Syva speakers, both available as in-wall, on-wall or freestanding, to massive DJ-specific systems for party rooms, the L-Acoustics Home & Yacht line offers homeowners a truly unique proposition, backed by global brand credibility.
More Information
L-Acoustics
l-acoustics.com
The luxury seating has cleverly hidden storage compartments
HomeCinemaAlliance.co.uk
South East
Immersive Cinema Rooms
www.immer sivecinemarooms.co.uk 01424 870763
New Wave AV
www.newwavehomecinema.co.uk 01732 852500
London Homeplay www.homeplay.tv 01932 781327
Cyberhomes www.cyberhomes.co.uk 0333 3443718
Prestige Audio Ltd
www.prestigeaudio.co.uk 0192 3801400
A professionally designed and installed home cinema system is much greater than the sum of its par ts.
South West
CinemaWorks
www.cinemawor ks.co.uk 0117 214 0115
Hidden Home Technology www.hiddenhome.tech 07736 454506
Halo Audio Visual
www.haloaudiovisual.co.uk 0120 2484737
Yorkshire
Bespoke Home Cinemas
www.bespokehomecinemas.co.uk 0113 266 0101
Yorkshire AV
www.yorkshireav.co.uk 01757 826111
North West
Electric Orange www.electr ic-or ange .co.uk 0151 9092770
East of England
Cinema Rooms Limited
www.cinemarooms.com 01245 790855
iCubed Home Cinema
www.icubedhomecinema.co.uk 07864 075693
SeriouslyCinema
www.ser iouslycinema.co.uk 01727 530175
East Midlands
Cinema@Home Ltd
www.cinema-at-home.co.uk 07478 771 026
Featured image: iCubed Home Cinema - A SONY Cinema
New Wave AV | Kent
The Majik House | Cumbria
Improving Your Home’s Security
Home surveillance and security is increasingly a priority for homeowners to help keep property, contents and, of course, family members safe from harm. We asked Michael Church from CEDIA member, Securilec, for his top tips on how to step up the level of security in your home to bring greater peace of mind.
Video surveillance and intruder alarms are the two key components of a home security system. Video surveillance cameras allow you to keep an eye on your property from wherever you are in the world via a mobile app. Most professional intruder alarm systems can also be monitored by a mobile app, allowing you to remotely turn the alarm system on or off, partially set it and receive alerts when the system goes off and in what area are standard features.
But here’s how can you enhance the basic functionality of your home security system with professionally integrated solutions to make them even more effective.
• Integrating lighting control into a smart security system can turn on or off any circuit which is controlled via a smart switch or
dimmer, including external flood lighting, garden lighting or ambient lighting around the property. The lighting can be automatically controlled via timer schedules but also triggers from other systems, such as, motion sensors, intruder alarms or video surveillance.
Activating external lights when a surveillance camera detects you, can also allow you to see your way forward while deterring unwanted visitors.
• Motion detection within a video surveillance system can use settings within the cameras to trigger events, such as, turning lights on or sending notifications to your mobile devices that someone or something has moved within the area of detection. This technology saves having to install multiple external motion sensors,
allowing the camera to become the detector. This method of detection also greatly enhances the flexibility of what area it should cover. Some cameras incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) to identify the difference between vehicles, animals or people and minimise unnecessary alerts.
• Notifications and message alerts can be triggered in the form of emails or push notifications sent to your mobile devices, the flashing of lights within your property or by an audible warning played through an integrated audio system. For example, when a courier delivers a parcel just outside the door but doesn’t press the doorbell, an external camera detects the delivery person and sends you a notification to your mobile with a video clip and the lights can flash within selected rooms of your home. These types of alerts can be custom programmed to suit your needs.
• When integrated into a full smart home system, the intruder alarm system can be connected to trigger internal and external lighting. When the alarm goes off, this can be helpful in deterring intruders but also useful for illuminating escape routes when
a smoke detector is triggered, closing blinds when the alarm system is armed and much more.
• Motion sensors installed around the home for intruder detection can also be used to trigger other events when you walk into a room, such as, turning lights on and off again when the room is vacated. This feature has a dual
purpose and can reduce the cost of your smart home installation as separate occupancy sensors may not be needed.
• With some smart home control systems, such as, Control4, the lighting, audio and other connected smart devices can be set up to learn your normal routine and then be set to play it back at slightly varying times when you are away from home. Automated blinds and curtains can also be connected and set to open and close at different levels and times using a pre-planned schedule. This is not only a convenience factor but adds to the sense of security, making your home appear occupied when you’re on holiday.
For further advice on home security contact Securilec, SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board) certificated installers of intruder, video surveillance and access control systems at securilec.co.uk. More information on CEDIA is available at cedia.org
Have it your way
Simon Gregory, Director of Cinema Rooms, one of the UK’s most experienced home cinema creators and installers, explains that these days, home cinema and media rooms are built around you the customer, so whatever your requirements and tastes, you can have it your way!
The old ‘media room’ and ‘cinema room’ distinction is over. These industry insider terms are giving way to the idea that - either way – we are creating a space and a system for when you want to watch things with the best quality possible - so films, box sets, sport and gaming sessions all have to be as good as we can possibly make them.
The best home cinema and entertainment rooms we have created are always tailored around our clients - we get to know who you are, what your tastes are, what you like to watch and how you like to watch it. Building up an informed profile of who is going to be using the space (and why) allows us to create a room that not only matches your taste in décor, but also your unique preferences for watching and listening.
Engineered Performance
I was one of the very first UK integrators to be trained for a new industry certification called the CEDIA/CTA RP22 immersive audio standards. CEDIA is the trade body for the home cinema and smart home market and these new standards were created by the world’s top technical experts to create a structure to ensure you the customer get the very best performance for your investment. Ultimately, this initiative means installers like our company have globally recognised measurable parameters so we can deliver top class performance no matter what the environment or challenges of each project.
To really get the best from immersive audio, behind the cool styling, we have to engineer
everything we can to maximise your emotional response. Physics is physics, and by applying design techniques we can give you deep, even bass throughout the room, making sure the results are consistent between seats, so everyone in the room gets the same enjoyment. Bass is very important in making sure films are enjoyed to their fullest extent, so you need to make sure you are working with an installer who understands this and knows how to deliver it.
A few companies still refuse to consider this stuff - sometimes acting like their favoured brands somehow have magical powers and can defy physics. It isn’t true - you need great ingredients and great technical design, to really deliver the best results. As the system owner, you won’t ever need to look at the measurements we take, or the calculations we do, but because
we’ve done our job properly, you’ll be drawn much deeper into the illusion so that everything feels better and more convincing. A true escape from reality, if you will.
The Big Picture
The choice of viewing with a large screen TV or a projector is personal - it depends on your lifestyle, your design preferences and how you want to use the room. We’ll help you choose and make intelligent decisions accordingly. Some people love the sense of occasion where you dim
the lights and watch a film - we love projectors for the serious scale, they really deliver and are unbeatable for that cinematic feel. Projected images are also less fatiguing to watch over time, so you can have a film marathon or binge on box sets.
Projection systems also have the best sound-to-picture cohesion, since the main screen speakers in a system like this sit directly behind the screen surface. That’s exactly what happens in most commercial cinemas.
The disadvantage of using a projector and a screen is that you need a darkened room for them to work really well, and the lower overall
brightness means that High Dynamic Range (HDR) material, a technology content-makers use to create more lifelike images, is more challenging to deliver.
Large Scale TV
A projector might not be right for you - and you can get some really impressive, very big TVs these days. A 98in Sony is just £5K retail and with its full array LED technology, offers really impressive images. This type of screen is ideal for gaming and sports. The advantage here is you can watch in higher light conditions, so it lends itself to daytime, casual viewing. TVs are inherently brighter, so they are more able to show HDR/Dolby Vision material more effectively – technologies that have been created to make images more vibrant and engaging.
Modular display (The Wall)
This ‘microLED’ display technology provides exceptional picture quality, is flexibility in size and delivers a very impressive viewing experience. This type of approach has all the extra brightness of a TV, together with extremely large picture sizes to maximize immersion - some argue that a modular display gives you the best of both worlds.
This space shows how cinemas can be woven into beautifully designed spaces
There are still challenges, though: it’s hard to get perfect sound-topicture cohesion since speakers have to go below, above, or to the sides of the screen, and the display surface itself is pretty reflective so you’ll need more absorption elsewhere. Finally, although they’ve come down a great deal, modular displays are still pretty expensive.
Tailoring and Tweaks
Once we’ve designed and installed the system, the final step is we calibrate and balance the audio and the picture to the room.
From there we can do a few more things to really make it suit you perfectly. For example, ‘night mode’ reduces dynamic range, limiting the volume to certain levels if you want to watch very late when little kids are asleep above. Then in a few years’ time, your teenagers can watch or game late and you can go to bed undisturbed. Another choice could be a ‘music mode’ if you love music - that might be a wraparound stereo
effect, or purist stereo two-channel, or something in between - we can play you the choices and you can pick. Gaming mode on TVs and displays reduces the video processing so that the games react quicker – those few milliseconds can make the difference between victory and defeat for the serious game player.
For multi-use spaces and family rooms, many entertainment options are available
Either way we will deliver something really impressive that suits you and your home perfectly.
More Information
Cinema Rooms cinema-rooms.co.uk
For some people the total immersion of a dedicated home cinema room is the best option
Established since 2009, Cinema Rooms offer you the best in cinema rooms, home cinema systems and home cinema installations all backed up by years of experience.
The multi Award winning team at Cinema Rooms are dedicated to giving you the finest cinema experience in your own home. Our Home cinema systems aim to suit all budgets, lifestyles, and interior design.
We pride ourselves on being able to work on a one-to-one basis with clients, interior designers and architects on projects large or small. Cinema Rooms are based in the South East; we cover Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent and London.
Call: Chelmsford office: 01245 790855
Mobile office: 07964 604762
E-mail: info@cinema-rooms.co.uk
We also offer FREE home and site survey
Experience The Joy Of Artcoustic
IH presents a tour around one of the UK’s leading audio visual and home cinema showrooms. The Artcoustic Showroom is located in the beautiful Essex Countryside and presents a wonderfully immersive experience of what this innovative audio brand can offer.
Danish company Artcoustic has been designing groundbreaking, world-class loudspeakers since 1998, constantly pushing the limits of convention and challenging the status quo. The company’s award-winning
collection of speakers perform amongst the highest in their class, delivering exceptional and high-quality sound.
As a result, Artcoustic has become a widely-respected loudspeaker
brand for the finest music and cinema systems, worldwide. Now, all of this knowhow, quality and appreciation for design can be experienced like never before. This luxurious site is situated in an attractive estate in parkland, setting a strong tone for a very special experience. Paul Cummin, Sales Manager at Artcoustic, explains, “We have created a beautiful showroom, in a stunning location, that enhances the experience for clients.”
Visitors encounter eight different zones/rooms including a party system, a TV room, an affordable high-performance cinema and a flagship statement cinema.
The spacious and easily navigable showroom opens out into a welcoming space, supporting the idea of a high-performance experience even before the products spring to life.
Intelligent Tour: Artcoustic Showroom
The systems are carefully designed to make sure this impression is only enhanced once any demonstration begins.
Supporting customers in choosing the right system in partnership with a professional audio visual installer, Paul explains, “The design process that works for almost any system is based on three performance variables and three client lead factors. For performance, it’s taken from industry measurable standards of Dynamic Range, Spatial Resolution and Timbre Matching. The client choices are then either financial, practical or aesthetic. Or indeed a combination of these. We looked at each area with these all in mind, addressing potential client brief and likely realistic choices. The end result is that we have applications highlighted, with different levels of those performance criteria.
“Our uniquely scalable range is fully utilised here, with over 70 speakers all permanently ready to play. Artcoustic has a product specifically suited to almost any application – with a range
of speakers that can play from 1m to 48m across the various industry recognised standard levels!”
The showroom does not just provide a chance to check out all the technology and performance available from Artcoustic and the other brands included, the space underlines how well the Artcoustic team understand and appreciate
strong interior design. Just as important when creating your special spaces to relax and enjoy your favourite music and movies. The design of the space was created in partnership with a company called Cinema Lux, provider of bespoke design and interior fit out solutions to audio visual projects. Paul explains, “Having worked with Cinema Luxe
on previous projects, we understood what they bring, and the synergy between our services. We needed the cinema rooms to have the same wow effect as the performance.
“That ‘wow’ as you walk in is a vital part of the whole experience. We can
then ‘wow’ with the performance of each system. Artcoustic is a speaker brand, we only do loudspeakers. But we understand that every project is a holistic combination of many factors. Cinema Luxe’s room design and delivery of them, is second to
none. The result is two cinema rooms that are completely on brand with our Scandinavian heritage, with different levels of experience and price points. We are really proud of how modern and contemporary the rooms look and feel.”
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Intelligent Tour: Artcoustic Showroom
Showroom highlights
One of the highlights of the space is the larger ‘flagship’ cinema room that underlines the highest level of performance available in the industry today. Paul says, “We believe this to be as good as anything else out there, with a 15.4.8 Dolby Atmos configuration. This goes beyond Dolby’s white paper guidelines, but as a select approved member of the Dolby DARTD program, we were able to use that software to design the room perfectly. We trust and follow the
process, letting the DARDT program tell us how many speakers, and where they need to be. The end result is incredible, with a subtlety often missing in ‘cinema demos’, and a presence and power when required.”
The initial impression created in the space is that the various zones and rooms are really pleasant spaces to be, even before the systems begin to play or be demonstrated. Skilful interior design and acoustics create a relaxing space which you can relate to and imagine applied to your own home.
Paul underlines, “Experiences are designed, they don’t just happen. From a system point of view, it’s the party systems and the cinema rooms that are amongst the most popular. They always put a smile on faces, and we get a kick from that. What we really enjoy though is playing the clips of movies and music that get real reactions. We’ve had (happy) tears, many jump scares, and a room full of burly men singing along to Barbie. The experience is everything, the technical processes are vital, but this isn’t a dull science experiment. It’s ultimately all about the emotions, the experience, the fun and the joy. To quote a recent client: “I had no idea it could sound this good!”.
Contact salesuk@artcoustic.com to book your visit. The Artcoustic team says, “allow more time than you think!”
More Information
Artcoustic Training Facility & Showroom
Park View, Baddow Park Chelmsford, Essex UK-CM2 7SY artcoustic.com
What is a home cinema?
Luxury audio visual expert, Mike Bonette, Technical Director of Connected Distribution, a specialist distributor of home cinema equipment in the UK, explains how to achieve your dream home cinema.
It might sound like a simple question with a simple answer. Surely it’s a system that gives you a cinema experience in the home? And in many ways it is just as simple as that, but dig a little deeper and you’ll soon see how many options and variants there are for you to choose from when planning your own home cinema.
How far you want to go with your home experience is entirely up to you – you can recreate the high street cinema experience in its entirety or go for something smaller scale that’s still going to excite. Let’s take a look at some options that you can discuss with a specialist installer.
Starting with the simplest option, you can buy a large screen 4K TV with built-in surround sound. This is as basic as it gets and isn’t going to sound like your local Odeon, but the clever electronics do a pretty good job of creating an immersive surround
sound experience from as few as two built-in speakers. Turn the lights down, open a bag of popcorn, sit back and relax…
Your next step is to add a dedicated soundbar. This replaces the TV speakers with a greater number of more powerful speakers that beam
the sound around the room, creating an impression of being surrounded by speakers. Soundbars, such as the Sonos ARC, give you a Dolby Atmos experience – this is the same immersive audio technology used in the cinema and really brings the action to life.
Moving up from the soundbar you’ll be adding separate speakers to your room – truly surrounding yourself with sound, plus a large screen TV or a projector and screen. You’ll need to add a home cinema amplifier, made by companies like Yamaha and Sony. To this you connect the speakers – and that can be anything from five speakers around the room for a smaller system, such as products from the likes of KEF and Cabasse; or anything from 7, up to 11, for a Dolby Atmos system, which will include speakers in the ceiling. Dolby Atmos uses ceiling speakers to give you a sense of height and a 360-degree sound space, so a system like this needs an expert to install it. Whatever the number of speakers, you’ll need a subwoofer – a speaker that is designed to produce the low frequencies vital for authentic soundtrack reproduction.
Let’s get serious about fun!
And if you want to go for a genuine cinema experience, you’re going to need some more serious kit. You’ll more than likely want to have a 4K projector and screen, and that means treating the room to some blackout blinds and curtains. The projector will probably need to be ceiling mounted, or perhaps even behind glass in its own projection room – just like the Odeon. The screen can also be perforated – covered in small holes you won’t see when the film is playing, but which allow you to mount the speakers in the wall behind the screen. The idea with a full-scale installation is to hide the technology and just enjoy the experience, exactly like a commercial cinema.
Talking of speakers, we would recommend you choose a brand that is known for its genuine cinema speakers instead of re-purposed Hi-Fi speakers. There’s a huge difference in the way the two types are designed
and if you really want it to sound ‘right’ then choose models from companies like Krix or Aurea – they make speakers for commercial cinemas and their domestic models retain genuine cinema sound. You’re also going to need a specialist cinema sound processor, such as an Acurus or Trinnov, multi-channel power amplifiers to connect to the speakers, and bigger, more powerful subwoofers. The finishing touches can be specialist cinema seating, auto dimming lights, auto curtains across the screen and the essential popcorn machine. Whatever you opt for, contact a specialist installer and discuss your requirements. They’ll be able to guide you through the options, help you choose the one that is right for you and install it expertly, so it gives you years of fabulous entertainment.
More Information
The Great Garden Getaway
Cory Lovett, CEO of Nexus 21, a company expert in providing innovative support and concealment solutions for luxury AV products, profiles the boom in exterior entertainment options to make garden time a great time!
One of the hottest trends in entertainment technology is outdoor entertainment that includes both seating, dining, lighting and audio visual enhancements that extend the season and make more use of the space you have invested in. Literally not a day goes by that we are not asked to contribute to projects using AV tech in outdoor settings, and we love those conversations. The topic is so much more popular than it used to be. Because of what we do, of course the conversations frequently turn to the question of how people can incorporate TVs into these outdoor spaces. The request typically comes from the need to have video displays outside and is often combined with a desire to store TVs away from the elements when not in use (which of course is most of the time).
While many people have a much broader awareness of outdoor lighting and audio, they are less sure how to effectively add higher end video displays like they have inside. People are looking to add displays by the pool, near outdoor kitchens, in entertainment pavilions, in enclosed porches and under patio covers.
However, these projects do come with some inherent –but easy to overcome — challenges. Because people often watch content on TVs outside from a wide range of vantage points, being able to swivel a TV into position wherever it is best viewed at any given time is an advantage.
Glare can be a challenge outdoors, so this is a true benefit to swiveling options. Concealing TVs is also a way to maintain aesthetics and can provide a place to stash gear, too. This is incredibly helpful, but also, keeping tech out of sight from nosy neighbours, out of reach by kids
and protected from animals and the elements is important.
These are all things technology integration pros are ideally suited to propose and have used successfully to position hidden TV options.
Some recent examples we have seen include custom-built enclosures, which have hinged doors or manual sliders to cover the TV. Motorised lifts can also be used for this of course, and they add some perks such as the ability to integrate them and automate the conceal/reveal function.
From an aesthetic standpoint, it is also important to be able to add video displays outdoors without interrupting the appearance of the area. To me, our integration partners (the professionals who will help you make your exterior entertainment needs come true) are magicians with the way they provide hidden technology. It’s always impressive.
As I mentioned before, most of the time the outdoor TV is not actually in use, so it’s not optimal for it to be visible unless it’s turned on and being used, and we really enjoy being able to contribute something to the beautiful outdoor spaces the AV industry creates.
One big factor that comes up a lot in our conversations is what to do about protecting tech from water. The use of waterproof equipment helps, but it’s also important to interface with landscaping and general contractors for help with adding physical factors in the design of the area to route water properly. Underground wiring, lighting and speakers are typically not big challenges in this way, but when TV screens are hidden in landscaping it can be very important to consider methods of keeping water away from them. The ideal way to accomplish this is to try to choose locations which inherently are protected, such as patios with covers. When this is not possible and the TV must be placed outside of covered areas, the TV enclosures should be waterproofed and should be located as high above ground as possible, so that pooling water will not be able to enter the enclosure.
Fast and fantastic
The fastest-growing trend right now is the use of flip-down TV screens, installed in the ceilings of patios. People everywhere have been using this method to place the displays close to their principal seating areas, because the flip down models are effective for camouflaging the screen to disappear when not used and also to keep the tech dry and away from wind when not in use.
I recommend that people also consider using devices which provide swivel capability for the TV screens because they provide several benefits. These include positioning the screen to face more than one area
that may need to see the content, allowing the unit to be installed in locations that are optimal technically for the install work, but which are not facing the desired viewing position, and the ability to slightly turn the screen to allow for continued viewing while decreasing sun glare at certain times of day.
In general, the addition of a hidden TV is a great way to provide a highly desired element of outdoor design, while also providing concealment, positional choice and protection.
More Information
Nexus 21 tvlift.com
From House to Home: Personalising Your Space with KNX
KNX is a popular and agile backbone to many a smart home. Find out more about how this system can make your house more your home.
Home automation allows you to create a living environment that responds to your every mood, activity and preference. With KNX, the possibilities for personalising your home are not just limitless; they are easy and exciting. From setting the perfect scene for any occasion to enhancing home security and efficiency for modern, intelligent living. Integrator Members of KNX UK, the national association for KNX professionals, can guide you through the magic of personalisation in home automation. Their knowledge and experience with this innovative technology ensure seamless integration into your daily life, making your home smarter and more responsive to your needs.
The Magic of Personalisation
Set the scene for every occasion. You return home from a long day at work. As you enter, the lights adjust to a soft, welcoming glow, your favourite playlist begins to play, and the temperature is adjusted just right, creating an immediate sense of comfort and relaxation. This isn’t just possible; it’s simple to set up. Homeowners can create ‘scenes’ - pre-set configurations for devices to behave in certain ways at the touch of a button. Movie night transformed. A single command dims the lights, lowers the blinds, sets the temperature, and adjusts your surround sound—tailoring your
living room into a dynamic home cinema. You can integrate all aspects of your home entertainment, making it feel like a night out at the movies but with the comfort of your sofa. Morning wake-up ritual. Imagine starting every day smoothly with a personalised morning routine. With a single command, your bedroom blinds gradually open, letting in the morning light, the thermostat adjusts to gently warm the room, and soft music begins to play, easing you into your day. Your coffee machine can even be triggered to start brewing your morning coffee, all seamlessly integrated and controlled using KNX technology. Perfect ambiance for dinner parties. Transform your
dining area into the perfect setting for hosting guests. You can create a dining scene where the lights dim to a charming glow, soft music plays in the background, and the climate is controlled for comfort. Even aspects like wine coolers can be set to the perfect temperature as your guests arrive, ensuring an evening where every detail is tailored to enjoyment and social interaction. Secure and safe environment. Enhance your home security effortlessly. Motion sensors can activate lighting in hallways during the night or trigger alarms and lighting if unusual activity is detected when you’re away. Cameras integrated within the system can provide real-time feedback to your mobile device, giving you peace of mind no matter where you are. Responding to your life. Your home can adapt not just to your choices, but also to environmental changes. Automated shading and lighting can adjust according to the time of day, weather, or even room occupancy, enhancing energy efficiency without any extra thought or effort from you. These scenarios not only showcase the flexibility and personalisation offered by KNX home and building automation but also illustrate how easily your home can evolve into a responsive, comfortable, and enjoyable space that fits perfectly into your lifestyle.
What is KNX?
KNX is not just another product; it’s a universal language for building automation systems. It allows certified devices and systems from over 500 manufacturers to communicate seamlessly over one common system. This might sound technical, but what it means for you is simplicity and flexibility. You can mix and match products that suit your style and needs without being tied to one brand or system.
Why Choose KNX?
Choosing KNX is about investing in a system that grows and adapts with you. It means future-proofing your space, ensuring that your home can evolve as technologies advance. With KNX, the control is in your hands, allowing you to tailor your environment precisely to your life’s changing phases - from a bustling family house to a serene retirement home.
Ready to Explore Further?
Imagine your home, but smarter, more responsive, and more attuned to your
needs. That’s what KNX offers. It’s not just about automation; it’s about creating environments that enhance your lifestyle. If you’re intrigued by the possibilities, why not contact a local KNX UK Integrator member, or visit a showroom? Discover firsthand how KNX can turn your house into a home that’s not only intelligent but truly yours. Log onto the KNX website, find out more and find your local installer.
More Information
KNX UK knxuk.org
Whether it’s practical applications or play time, KNX can control it all
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Luxury and Technology in Harmony
In a picturesque setting designed by the legendary 18th century landscape architect Capability Brown, a new home has emerged as a beacon of innovative technology and traditional elegance. This exceptional project, led by Donovan Construction, De-Draft Architects and Katie Groves Interior Designer, is a collaboration with smart home experts New Land Group, aimed at creating a sanctuary that marries functional family living with cutting-edge home automation.
Returning to the New Land Group after a successful previous home refit, these discerning clients sought to infuse their new residence with the same elements that enriched their former home. They envisioned a space that not only met their daily needs but also served as a hub for entertainment and personal expression. Their brief highlighted the importance of advanced home automation, luxurious amenities and communal spaces designed for entertaining.
The Vision
At the heart of this project was the desire to create a home that offers more than just a place to live. It was to be a sanctuary for the family - a
space that reflects their love for art, movement and communal experiences. Central to this vision was the integration of a cinema and dance studio, underscoring the
family’s passion for entertainment. The kitchen was also to be an inviting nucleus for gatherings, emphasising the importance of shared spaces in fostering family bonds.
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“The challenge,” notes Luke Newland, founder of New Land Group, “was to seamlessly integrate stateof-the-art technology into a home that radiates traditional elegance and warmth. We wanted to ensure that every technological feature enhances the living experience without compromising the aesthetic appeal.”
The Journey
Transforming the basement into a multifunctional entertainment hub was a key aspect of the project. This space now boasts a custombuilt cinema, a dance studio and a nightclub, each meticulously designed to reflect the family’s vibrant lifestyle. The cinema features the latest in audio visual technology, offering an immersive viewing experience, while the dance studio is equipped with professional-grade flooring and sound systems to cater to the family’s passion for movement.
Technology has been woven into the fabric of the home with precision and care. Plastered-in speakers
ensure high-quality sound in every room, whilst offering zero impact on the aesthetics of the space as they remain completely hidden within the fabric of the space. Discreetly integrated climate control systems maintain comfort, also without disrupting the aesthetic harmony of the home. The sophisticated KNX backbone connects various functionalities, from avant-garde
other aspects of this smart home
window treatments to an eco-conscious heating system, all working in perfect harmony to provide a seamless and intuitive user experience.
KNX is a popular system used by smart home experts to link the disparate systems present in a home into a single, controllable interface –creating a truly intuitive way to control the home. KNX also allows many of
Beautiful interfaces by Basalte control the lighting and
the home’s abilities in efficiency and entertainment to happen completely automatically without any input from the family needed at all.
The Result
The result is a home that stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of luxury living and advanced home automation. “This new build is not just a house; it’s a beacon of how traditional elegance and cuttingedge innovation can blend to create a home that is as welcoming as it is alluring, as sustainable as it is sophisticated,” says Luke. Every element of the home, from the plastered-in Meridian Audio speakers to the discreet yet beautiful Basalte keypads, has been designed to enhance the living experience.
The transformation of the basement into an entertainment hub is particularly noteworthy. The custom-built cinema offers an unparalleled viewing experience, while the dance studio and nightclub provide spaces for the family to enjoy their passions. This multifunctional space exemplifies the project’s goal of creating a home that caters to every aspect of the family’s lifestyle.
This project by the New Land Group is a shining example of how traditional elegance and innovative technology can coexist to create a truly exceptional home. It demonstrates the potential of
advanced home automation to enhance everyday living, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience that does not compromise on style or comfort.
For those inspired by this story, reaching out to the New Land Group could be the first step towards transforming their own homes into intelligent sanctuaries that reflect both modern innovation and timeless elegance.
More Information
Newland Solutions newland.solutions
The attractive control points for the home blend with the colour scheme
Smart Thinking
Ian Trudgeon, Director at experienced smart home install company thinkingbricks, presents his top 10 tips on how to choose exactly the right functionality for your smart home.
Decide WHAT you want to happen
Telephone, broadband, satellite, terrestrial TV, multi-room music, multi-room video, intelligent lighting, automated blinds & curtains, CCTV, gate entry – the list goes on. Be sure and make a list of which services are most important for you. This is about your home, so prioritise your basic requirements and which services would be ‘nice to have’.
Decide WHERE you want it to happen
List out the names of the rooms and the facilities you want to be available in that room. Consider how you use or will use the rooms if they are being renovated or if it’s a new build project. For example, a lounge or kitchen would merit more services than a utility room or guest bedroom. An office space may require more
telephone / broadband connections than TV points.
Set a BUDGET…
Smart homes can be achieved on a variety of budgets, but don’t expect highly sophisticated systems to be
inexpensive. Make sure you will have your basic services included and cabled for as the absolute minimum. If budget allows, then you can extend the capabilities in the future. Set budgets for the infrastructure cabling, the hardware involved and the labour to install and programme the above.
thinkingbricks
Since 2004, thinkingbricks have been helping clients, like you, to build their “smart home technology” specifications from scratch
From a clear needs analysis - we take your wishlist and put a sensible budget around it.
Providing a set of detailed drawings, we communicate to your build team EXACTLY how your eventual smart home is delivered.
From ensuring a match with the overall decor, to hiding technology from sight, we care about the final finish.
With a personal handover, your technology will be simple to use, from Day One… Remote and on-site, we offer a full range of service & upgrade plans for all the systems we install.
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Pick a HUB location…
Choose a sensible location for the cabling to be run from and to, and any equipment to be located. Consider ventilation and power to the hub room – there may be a great number of components stored here.
DESIGN, design, design…
You have architect plans to ensure your property is built correctly, and the same principle applies to designing and installing smart home technology. Flooding a property with cabling is not the best approach. A smart home designer can establish a full room by room design for your property, to deliver exactly what is required, with minimal wasted cabling. If you want to go it alone, always ensure you refer back to the services you want, the rooms and their usage level and think through the cables needed for the different systems.
Don’t compromise on INFRASTRUCTURE…
The most expensive cable you ever run will be the one you forget to include. It is better to slightly overcable the property, than try to get away with the minimum. Building works can damage cabling and
it is best to run spares to ensure a connection. If you choose any element to ‘invest’ in building your smart home, the smart money would be spent here!
Pick a SYSTEM…
Look through a variety of the systems available. Use the internet to research the systems available – simple searches on ‘multi-room audio’ or ‘home networking’ can help in the initial stages. Seek advice on what the systems will do and which one fits your needs. Some companies have their own demonstration facilities, or can arrange a visit to a specific location to experience the systems for yourself.
Think AESTHETICS…
Think about how you want your system to ultimately look. You will use it every day, and the system should work with your interior design. For example, the finish of keypads can be matched to power sockets or door handles. Modern open plan design can really benefit from discrete installation of the speakers or TV screens, which can also free up floor space. Choose a system or components you can appreciate visually, as well as meeting your needs.
Think AHEAD…
Nothing can ever be totally future proof. With clever design, and expert knowledge – your system can be installed with a variety of opportunities in place for future improvements, as and when you require them. Think about how you want to control the systems – do you want to use keypads, or a simple handheld controller / touchscreen?
Ask QUESTIONS…
The smart home industry can be complex, with a wide variety of options and approaches to the different systems that can be controlled. Ultimately, it is your money and you need to be sure you are getting what you want and that you understand everything about your system. Don’t be patronised by technical jargon. If you don’t understand, ask for a plain English explanation.
More Information
Smart Choices for Your Lighting
Andy Bull and Gordon Petrie, Directors of Design at Eclipse Lighting Design, explain the main points to consider and execute when creating intelligent and beautiful lighting for your home.
What Are Lighting Control Systems?
Lighting control systems are integral to modern high-end residences. They allow homeowners to set various scenes throughout their homes, such as dining, entertaining, or movie watching, with a simple touch. The ability to effortlessly change the mood and ambience of a space is one of the primary advantages of these systems. Traditional light switches can clutter walls, especially in open-plan areas, whereas a lighting control system offers a sleek keypad or even voice commands through Alexa or Google. Automation is another significant benefit, enabling lights to turn on automatically based on the time of day and incorporating circadian lighting to optimise human-centric lighting systems.
Personalisation and Customisation
The true value of a lighting control system lies in its ability to be customised to fit the unique needs of the homeowners. Fine-tuning the system to match the family’s lifestyle, creating specific scenes, and automating what can be done are essential aspects of the process. Homeowners should also have the ability to edit these scenes themselves, making simple adjustments without relying on constant support from integrators.
Scene Setting and Automation
Creating the right ambience and simplifying control through scene setting and automation is a core function of lighting control systems.
These features allow homeowners to adjust lighting based on activities or time of day, enhancing convenience and lifestyle. Automating these processes ensures that the lighting always complements the intended use of the space, be it for relaxation, work, or entertainment.
Integration with Smart Home Systems
The integration of lighting control systems with other smart home technologies is a critical aspect of their appeal. For instance, an ‘away’ setting can simulate occupancy by turning lights on and off, deterring potential intruders. In the event of a burglar alarm, lighting systems can illuminate the entire house and even flash exterior lights to attract attention. Moreover, lighting controls can be integrated with AV systems
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Our home cinemas and smart home installations go beyond just amazing 4K picture and immersive Dolby Atmos sound. We design personalised theater experiences that prioritise your comfort and enjoyment. This includes installing the perfect lighting, comfortable seating, room acoustic treatments, and an intuitive control system from Savant, Crestron, or Control4 – and that’s just the beginning.
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to transition from bright settings to movie-watching modes, enhancing the overall experience.
User-Friendly Interfaces
The design of user-friendly interfaces is paramount to the success of a lighting control system. Engravings on keypad buttons, clear labelling, and intuitive controls ensure ease of use. Simplicity should always be prioritised over complexity, ensuring that homeowners can operate their systems effortlessly.
Aesthetic Considerations
Balancing functionality with aesthetics in the placement and design of lighting controls is vital. Keypads should blend with the home’s design, and various finishes are available to match different aesthetics.
Wireless vs. Wired Systems
When it comes to choosing between wireless and wired lighting control systems, each has its pros and cons. Wired systems are generally more reliable, but wireless systems offer excellent solutions for retrofits and areas where wiring isn’t feasible.
A combination of both often provides the best of both worlds, offering flexibility and reliability where needed.
Energy Efficiency
While energy saving might not always be the top priority for homeowners investing in lighting control systems, it remains a valuable by-product. These systems ensure lights are only on when needed and allow for preset maximum levels for circuits, helping to save energy without compromising on light output. A minor reduction in light output often goes unnoticed but can significantly reduce energy consumption, contributing to a more sustainable home environment.
Daylight Harvesting
Daylight harvesting is another significant feature of advanced lighting control systems. Using daylight sensors, these systems can reduce reliance on artificial lighting by optimising the use of natural light. Integrating blind controls with lighting systems further enhances this efficiency, ensuring that natural light is utilised effectively while maintaining comfort and aesthetics.
Future-Proofing
Ensuring that lighting control systems can adapt to future technological advancements is crucial for their longterm value. Reputable manufacturers often offer backward compatibility, allowing for updates without replacing the entire system. This future-proofing ensures longevity and adaptability, making the investment in a high-quality lighting control system worthwhile.
Maintenance and Support
Proper installation and planning for ongoing maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of lighting control systems. Modern systems can alert integrators to issues, enabling proactive maintenance. While lighting control systems generally require less maintenance compared to other smart home technologies, ensuring proper installation and using reputable products are key factors in minimising potential issues.
Conclusion
The integration of well-planned lighting control systems in high-end residences offers numerous benefits, from enhancing the aesthetic appeal and convenience to improving energy efficiency and security. By focusing on personalisation, user-friendly interfaces, integration with other smart home systems, and futureproofing, homeowners can maximise the value and enjoyment of their lighting control systems. With insights from experienced lighting designers like Gordon Petrie and Andy Bull, it is clear that thoughtful planning and commissioning of these systems are essential for creating a truly luxurious and functional home environment.
More Information
Eclipse Lighting Design Eclipse-LD.com
Avon
ENGLAND
BrownHen Solutions MOE
Bath 01225 519731 brownhensolutions.com
CinemaWorks MOE
Bristol 01172 140115 cinemaworks.co.uk
Future Integration
Bath 07886 034495 futureintegration.co.uk
LAVA Bristol 07584 550348 lavahome.co.uk
Multicoms Solutions
Bristol 0117 955 7140 multicoms.co.uk
Revolve CI
Weston Super Mare 01934 260979 revolveci.co.uk
Richer Sounds
Bath 0333 900 0088 richersounds.com
Richer Sounds
Bristol 0333 900 0024 richersounds.com
Sevenoaks Sound & Vision
Bristol 0117 923 8298 ssav.com
Bedfordshire
thinkingbricks limited
Stevenage 07904 640913 thinkingbricks.co.uk
Berkshire
Affinitive AV
Warfield 0800 043 9228 affinitive.co
AURA Home Tech
Wokingham 01344 269270 aurahometech.co.uk
Beacon Installations
Newbury 07796 148086 beaconinstall.co.uk
Cinemas & Control
Ascot 01344 944300 cinemasandcontrol. co.uk
Cinergy Audio Visual
Wargrave 0333 0509354 cinergy.ltd
Quest End Maidenhead 01628 290640 questend.co.uk
Realtime Europe
Maidenhead 020 8575 8588 realtime-av.uk.com
Richer Sounds
Reading 0333 900 0044 richersounds.com
Richer Sounds Eton 0333 900 0087 richersounds.com
Sevenoaks Sound & Vision
Caversham 01189 477093 ssav.com
UK Home Cinemas Crowthorne 01344 773695 ukhomecinemas.com
Buckinghamshire AV Custom Chesham 01494 778811 avcustom.tv
GMS Intelligent Systems Lurgan 07754 789163 gms-intellsys.co.uk
Epitome Living Craigavon 028 3881 0102 epitomeliving.com
County Down
Ark Integrated Solutions
Ballynahinch 07450 2889163 arkisgroup.com
prestigeaudio
award winning home cinemas and smart homes
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