Building a View
Fact Check
Challenge
From the outset, it was clear to us that there would be a large number of lighting circuits and a combination of lighting technologies required on the Building a View project. As discussions with the architect and client developed, the quantity and complexity of the project’s needs only increased, as the technology we provided needed to marry with the sleek design of the building and its unique site.Epitome Living sought to integrate a system that highlighted the beauty of the project through lighting. This included giving the client full lighting control, alongside providing technology that would allow them to manage the home’s natural light throughout the day.
With a traditionally wired house, complex lighting systems result in a complexity increase for day to day operation for the homeowner. A system like this would require multiple switches on large wall plates, often with some items dimmable and others not. There’s also the added complexity and limitations that come with 2 and 3-way switching. Inevitably, remote controls and/or multiple mobile apps are needed in conjunction with traditional switches, further complicating and frustrating the user experience. Once combined with the requirement for motorised shading, all these controls add wall clutter, which did not suit the architectural style of this house.
Thankfully, our clients were already familiar with what we offer, due to past projects which we highlighted on social media. They had a desire for simple control with automation, and they wanted a long term plan in place for their new home.
Solution
With the clear focus on a need for combining lighting circuits such as RGBW LED strip, WW LED strip, and dimmable fittings including spots and pendants, it became clear to us that Loxone was the obvious choice for this project.Once the system choice was confirmed, this allowed us to look deeper at the lighting requirements with the client and architect, and begin specifying fixtures which we could supply, such as Loxone Tree Spots and Loxone Pendulum Slim fittings. Combining these with some decorative 230v dimmable fixtures (connected via Loxone Dimmer Extensions) gave the client full control of the system when needed, as well as automation via Presence Sensors and scheduling (particularly useful for outside lighting).
To further meet the client's desire for simplicity, shading and heating controls and a multi-room audio system were included in the system, as well as security alarm and allowances for access control.
Finally, when in a room, the on wall controls are sleek and uncluttered. Instead of a grid of switches for lighting, multiple remote controls for the LED strip, rocker switches for the blinds and thermostats for the heating, we were able to specify Touch Pure switches, giving simple control and a beautiful aesthetic.
We chose Loxone for a couple of reasons on this project. Firstly, the client was familiar with our work from using Loxone on previous projects and already loved the concept. Secondly, we were confident that Loxone technology would meet the requirement for control of an array of lighting technologies. We knew the end result of building a Loxone system would create a pleasant, straightforward user experience and also give smooth automation when required.
Scott McMurrayDirector