A Technology Design to Complement an Art Collection

The following information is courtesy of the 2008 CEDIA Electronic Lifestyles Designers’ Choice Awards. For more information on how to become a member of CEDIA, or information on its awards program please visit www.cedia.org or call (800) 669-5329.

2008 CEDIA Electronic Lifestyles Awards Entry: Best Integrated Home, Level V: $380,000 – $675,000

IH23

Date design began: 01-15-03
Date installation was completed: 03-31-08

FEATURE ESSAY

1. Please provide a short four to six sentence synopsis describing the project goals, special features, or nuances.

This high-rise home is the extraordinary result of impeccable planning and stellar execution. From design through final, the minutia of detail-conduit wiring, stealth technology, and control over cutting-edge art installations resulted in a creative outpouring rivaling the client’s word-class modern art collection. The residence is comprised of a 5,000 square foot living space and an adjacent 2,500 square foot gallery purchased halfway though the project. Every aspect of the home’s architecture was scrutinized to maximize the open floor plan. A retractable 14’ multimedia screen, drop-down plasmas, and hidden gallery kitchen and guest quarters are just a few of the innovative design solutions that combined, afford an amazingly livable and visually stunning space. Our goal was to create an environment where the owner and his family use technology to live their best life.

2. Did you encounter any challenges or limitations that required special consideration in the design of the system or placement of equipment? Please describe the control system.

Challenges abounded from the start of the project through completion. The high-rise location in a dense metropolitan grid necessitated top-notch project management in all phases of the job. All wiring is pulled through conduit and our design needed to anticipate upgrades or changes in the system as the homeowner’s technological needs changed. The acquisition of a large gallery midway through the project required multiple solutions including system integration to the main living area and planning for automation of artwork that had yet to be delivered. In addition, the architect pushed for ways to conceal technology; tolerances were incredibly small. Intuitive Crestron wireless touchpanels, remotes, and keypads control all the home’s functions including lighting, distributed audio and video, artwork, shades, and security.

3. Discuss the overall plan you created to accomplish the clients’ requirements.

We learned at initial meetings that our client was a technophobe, a mindset acquired through previous unfortunate experiences. We became a trusted advisor by designing simple, intuitive systems that allow the family more time for living. They love to entertain and regularly use their home and its fabulous art as a backdrop for get-togethers. During construction, the homeowner couldn’t predict with certainty what artwork was going to be installed or where. In addition, in keeping with each artist’s vision, many of the more unusual parts of the collection needed to be run off computers and plasma screens. Our systems had to be flexible and we delivered. Through a relationship that necessitated trust from both the client and our company, we were able to create solutions that might otherwise have been thought impossible.

4. Describe the five most used functions of the system and how they benefit the client.

a. Lighting Control – The client’s modern art collection includes pieces in a variety of media. Simple yet flexible control of the home’s lighting is integral to the client’s passion for collecting.

b. Audio Distribution – Music plays an important role in this family’s life and the ability to listen to what they want, when they want, and where they want was a priority. A digital music librarian and iPod accomplish this need.

c. Artwork Integration – The home’s 21st-century art collection requires automation of computers, monitors, and large-format projection.

d. Video Distribution – Varied film tastes of each family member can be accommodated throughout the residence and gallery using Crestron distribution systems.

e. Wireless touchscreens and touchpanels tie everything together and allow the homeowner and his family complete control over their environment.

EQUIPMENT LIST:

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Apple Computer
Model#: Mac Mini
Product Description: Computer

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Chief
Model#: MCD
Product Description: Dual LCD Mount

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Chief
Model#: MCS
Product Description: Plasma Mount

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Chief
Model#: Versa
Product Description: Mount

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: Comcast
Model#: Cable Box
Product Description: Cable Box

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Concord
Model#: Security System
Product Description: Including Automation Module

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: BB-1000
Product Description: Touchpanel Enclosures

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CAEN-7X1
Product Description: Lighting Enclosure

Qty: 15
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CHV-RTS
Product Description: Flush Mount Control Sensor

Qty: 8
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CHV-TSAT
Product Description: Communicating Thermostat

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLX-1DIM4
Product Description: Dimmer Module

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLT-1DIM4
Product Description: Terminal Block

Qty: 4
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLX-2DIM2
Product Description: Dimmer Module

Qty: 4
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLT-2DIM2
Product Description: Terminal Block

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLX-1DIM8
Product Description: 8-Zone Incandescent Dimmer

Qty: 4
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLT-1DIM8
Product Description: Terminal Block

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLX-2DIM8
Product Description: Dimmer Module

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLT-2DIM8
Product Description: Terminal Block

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNMSX-PRO 2
Product Description: Processor

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: C2N-SPWS300
Product Description: 300 Watt Power Supply

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNRFGWA
Product Description: Radio Transceiver

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: ML-500
Product Description: Mini-LCD Remote

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNTBLOCK
Product Description: Network Terminal Block

Qty: 16
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNX-B2-12
Product Description: Scene Control Switches

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNX-BIPAD8
Product Description: Audio Distribution Processor

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CT-1000
Product Description: Color LCD Touchscreen

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: PAC2
Product Description: Lighting Control Processor

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: ST-1550C
Product Description: Color LCD Touchscreen

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: ST-COM-RS232
Product Description: Communications Module

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: TPS-2000L
Product Description: Color Touchpanel

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: C2N-TFM
Product Description: FM Tuner

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: C2N-TAMWX
Product Description: Tuner

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNX-PVID8X3
Product Description: Video Distribution Switcher

Qty: 8
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNX-RMC
Product Description: Room Solution Box

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: C2-ENET-1
Product Description: 1-Port Ethernet Card

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNRFGWA-418
Product Description: RF Gateway

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNANT
Product Description: Gateway Antenna

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CAEN-BLOCK
Product Description: Terminal Block

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNLFDB-4
Product Description: 4-Zone Dimming Module

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CENIPOD
Product Description: iPod Interface

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: TPS-3100
Product Description: Color Touchscreen

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: C2ENET-1
Product Description: 1-Port Ethernet Card

Qty: 4
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNPWS-75
Product Description: 75 Watt Power Supply

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: STRFGWX
Product Description: RF Gateway

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: STX-1700CW
Product Description: Wireless Touchpanel

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNAMPX-12X60
Product Description: 12-Channel Multi Room Amplifier

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLX-1DELV4
Product Description: Low-Voltage Dimmer Module

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CLT-1DELV4
Product Description: Terminal Block

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CAEN-4X1
Product Description: Lighting Enclosure

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNXRY-8
Product Description: Control Card

Qty: 6
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: C2N-CBF
Product Description: Cameo Keypads

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: CNX-PVID8X3
Product Description: Video Router

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: STX-1700CXPW
Product Description: Wireless Touchpanel

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: TPS-RFGWX
Product Description: Antenna

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: PW-2420RU
Product Description: Universal Power Pack

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Crestron
Model#: PW-1215
Product Description: Power Pack

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Da-Lite
Model#: 41466
Product Description: Matte Fabric for Gallery Screen

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Denon
Model#: DVD-2800
Product Description: DVD Player

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Denon
Model#: DVD-1930CI
Product Description: DVD Player

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Dell
Model#: Computer
Product Description: 17� LCD Monitor & Windows XP

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: D-Link
Model#: DWL-2100AP
Product Description: WiFi Access Point

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Escient
Model#: Fireball E-120
Product Description: CD Controller

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Escient
Model#: Fireball DVDM-100
Product Description: DVD Manager

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Fujitsu
Model#: P50XHA40US
Product Description: 50� Plasma Monitor

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Fujitsu
Model#: P55XHA40US
Product Description: 55� Plasma Monitor

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Fujitsu
Model#: P42HHA4OUS
Product Description: 42� HD Plasma

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Lexicon
Model#: RV-8
Product Description: 3-Zone AV Receiver

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: LG
Model#: 42PX5D
Product Description: Plasma w/Cable Card

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Lutron
Model#: GRX-FDBI
Product Description: Florescent Dimmable Interface

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: Middle Atlantic
Model#: Slim 5-43
Product Description: Rack Enclosure

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: Monster On-Q
Model#: 363476-25
Product Description: 42� Enclosure

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Monster Power
Model#: HTS-5100
Product Description: Power Conditioner

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: Monster Power
Model#: HTUPS1000
Product Description: Power Supply

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Monster Power
Model#: HTFS500
Product Description: Surge Protector

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Panamax
Model#: Towermax CO/4
Product Description: Surge Protector

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Panamax
Model#: Towermax KSU
Product Description: Surge Protector

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Model#: KX-TDA100
Product Description: Hybrid IP-PBX

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Model#: KX-TDA0144
Product Description: Cell Station

Qty: 4
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Model#: KX-T7431B
Product Description: Telephone

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Model#: KX-T7453B
Product Description: Telephone

Qty: 9
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Model#: KX-TD7680B
Product Description: Wireless Telephone

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Model#: KX-T7633B
Product Description: 7600 Series Telephone

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Model#: KX-T7431
Product Description: Digital 12-line Display Telephone

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Model#: KX-TD7895
Product Description: Digital 900 MHz Cordless Telephone

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Premier Mount
Model#: PCM-100
Product Description: Plasma Mount

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Runco
Model#: VX-44D 1080p
Product Description: Projector

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Runco
Model#: McKinley Lens
Product Description: w/Autoscope

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: Sonance
Model#: Silhouette 1
Product Description: In-Wall Speaker

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Sony
Model#: CDP-CX420
Product Description: 400 Disc CD Changer

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Sony
Model#: DVP-CX777ES
Product Description: 400 Disc DVD Changer

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: Sony
Model#: KDLV32XBR2
Product Description: LCD Display

Qty: 3
Manufacturer: SpeakerCraft
Model#: BB1235
Product Description: 12-Channel Amplifier

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: SpeakerCraft
Model#: 6.5 DT
Product Description: In-Ceiling Speaker

Qty: 22
Manufacturer: SpeakerCraft
Model#: CRS6 Three
Product Description: In-Ceiling Speaker

Qty: 4
Manufacturer: SpeakerCraft
Model#: OE DT6 One
Product Description: Speaker

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: SpeakerCraft
Model#: OE6 Three
Product Description: Outdoor Speaker

Qty: 2
Manufacturer: SpeakerCraft
Model#: BASSX-W 10
Product Description: In-Wall Subwoofer

Qty: 5
Manufacturer: Sunfire
Model#: CRM-2
Product Description: Compact Ribbon Speaker

Qty: 1
Manufacturer: Triad
Model#: Bronze 6
Product Description: In-Wall Subwoofer

TIME AND EXPERTISE:

Client Interviews: 14

Electronic Design and Engineering: 42

Proposal and System Documentation Preparation: 42

Project Management: 70

Pre-wire/Rough-in: 222

Trim-out: 250

Shop Time for Racking and Testing: 42

Programming: 347

Final Installation and Calibration: 350

Client Instruction: 16

Interior Design and/or Architecture by your Company: 0

Interior Design and/or Architecture by Others: 25

Project Management by Others: 0

Other time: 0
Describe Task:

Total Hours to Complete: 1420