Having worked with a variety of control systems for full home automation systems, Knightsbridge Audio Visual (KAV London) is aware there are many aspects of audiovisual systems to consider from design, to specification, installation and ongoing maintenance.
Today, home technologies can be integrated into one system for simple and remote control from the touch of a button. Lighting, sound systems, televisions, media servers, security alarms, cameras, blinds, door entry and much more can all centrally managed, integrated and controlled.
Controlling home systems is also possible from a variety of interfaces. Touchscreen tablets are popular, which can be discreetly installed into a wall or placed on a worktop or table. Alternatively, a range of mobile devices can be used, or a specifically designed wall panel or a smart remote control. With a control system, such as Control4, all the homeowners’ preferences will be programmed into an App or remote. As a result, they can easily access the functions from their favourite lighting scenes to security settings.
Smart systems
What’s more, programming functions allow features such as mockupancy. This is a term used for home automation systems to mimic homeowners’ standard use, while they are away. For example, setting a full alarm on the property and going on holiday can automatically trigger mockupancy mode where the lights switch on and off, and the blinds open and close to the homeowners’ usual schedule.
Custom programming also allows users to set features such as which lighting scenes come on at certain times of day. For example, when entering the kitchen during the day occupants are most likely to want a bright white scene for good visibility. However, for a late night visit to the fridge they will want a subtle and warm glow to light the way.
Complementing interior schemes
Knightsbridge Audio Visual recently installed this audiovisual system for a luxury residential property in London. This is a prime example of how technology can be specified to complement the interior as well as providing a practical solution to home automation.
Control4 is the primary control system that was used on this project. Wall-mounted touchscreens allow access to multiple systems throughout the property. Firstly, music selection and control is managed by the home audio system, Sonos. Integrated in-ceiling speakers, from Bowers & Wilkins, as well as invisible plaster over speakers, from Amina, were then installed in many of the living areas and bedrooms to deliver high quality sound. A series of separate zones were programmed to allow the user to control music selections and where the music played throughout the property.
A separate control system, Lutron Homeworks QS, was installed to manage the lighting and automated blinds. However, the two control systems work in harmony meaning the lights and blinds can still be controlled by the Control4 touchscreens. This allows for various lighting scenes and functions to be programmed, as well as manual control from a number of wall-mounted switches and dimmers. Energy saving LED’s were also fitted throughout the property. Not only do these bulbs use a fraction of the energy, but also the warmth of the light can be controlled, from a very bright and clear white to a much softer and warmer white, more commonly associated with traditional halogen bulbs.
One room that stands out in this project is the home cinema installation. A 137” curved screen, from Screen Research, which was fitted with a Bowers & Wilkins 7.2 surround sound system, built into the ceiling and walls. All control was programmed into the Control4 system, including the media library for video content as well as television access from a selection of channels and satellite providers.
Hidden talent
The majority of these systems are completely hidden from view. This is an important step of designing a home automation system. It is recommended that audiovisual companies are brought in early on new developments to ensure the wiring and fittings are in place from the construction stage. With the majority of the hardware fitted into an AV rack and quietly tucked away, all media boxes, routers and drivers work from behind the scenes. The result is a beautifully designed home where the technology simply works with your lifestyle.