URC, a global manufacturer of smart residential and commercial automation solutions, has announced Phase 2 of its Virtual Assistant, now featuring enhanced voice interaction capabilities.

Building on the successful beta launch in December and recent updates, this latest phase represents a significant leap in usability and convenience, enabling URC Certified Dealers to interact with the Virtual Assistant simply by speaking the company points out.

The N.Y.-based smart home company states its Virtual Assistant, available 24/7 through URC’s dealer portal and website, leverages AI to support URC’s Total Control and Complete Control product lines. By adding voice interaction, the company continues, URC provides an intuitive, hands-free way for dealers to access technical information, user guides, partner manuals, videos, and more.

“Voice interaction adds a new dimension of accessibility for our dealers,” says Chang K. Park, Founder and CEO, URC. “This enhancement continues our commitment to delivering innovative tools that support dealers in providing exceptional smart living experiences while improving their operational efficiency.”

URC Phase 2 Virtual Assistant Leverages Advanced AI Technologies

The integration of voice technology follows the release of an AI-powered Virtual Assistant earlier this year, designed to streamline dealer support notes URC. This feature offers dealers immediate solutions to technical questions, pulling from a constantly updated repository of information. Voice support means dealers can now multitask more effectively, accessing information with a simple voice command rather than navigating screens manually.

Following early positive feedback from the URC Certified Dealer community, this launch is expected to augment URC’s commitment to customer experience (CX) and dealer support innovation. The Virtual Assistant, backed by recent AI enhancements, provides more robust and accurate answers, setting a new standard for smart automation support.

“This addition of voice interaction is part of a larger vision for AI in our product ecosystem,” adds Ron Pence, marketing lead, URC. “Our mission is to continuously enhance dealer support tools to empower our partners to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving market.”

The Virtual Assistant offers several benefits that include:

Increased Accessibility: Dealers can now ask questions and receive answers while actively working on installations or troubleshooting on-site.

Faster Response Times: Immediate voice-activated responses save valuable time for dealers, eliminating the need to pause tasks to type inquiries.

Expanded Support: Voice commands allow for seamless, hands-free access to URC’s rich technical library, ensuring quick responses at any time.

For More Information:  www.urc-automation.com

The post URC Virtual Assistant Phase 2 Officially Launched appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

The latest version of SavantOS, now officially rolling out as SavantOS 11, introduces a host of exciting new features and upgrades, designed to elevate the user experience and integrate the latest technology for smarter, more intuitive home control.

Siri Integration Brings Seamless Voice Control
One of the most highly anticipated features of SavantOS 11 is Siri Integration, which allows users to control their smart home with simple, natural language commands via Apple Shortcuts. This feature, currently available for Pro Host users with an Essentials Subscription, takes convenience to the next level by letting you adjust lighting, manage entertainment systems, or regulate thermostats using nothing but your voice. This integration is designed to maximize the value of your Savant SaaS packages, making your investment even more worthwhile.

LEAP Integration Gets a Major Update
SavantOS 11 also enhances LEAP Integration, streamlining the configuration and control of Lutron LEAP Systems for QSX. With the new update, LEAP systems are now seamlessly configured within Blueprint, eliminating the need for a separate configuration webpage. In addition, the LEAP Bridge is now fully integrated into the Lighting & Shade Manager UI, simplifying access and management of your lighting and shading solutions for a smoother, more efficient user experience.

da Vinci Becomes SavantOS: A Fresh New Look
As part of the SavantOS 11 release, da Vinci has undergone a major rebranding and is now officially SavantOS. This change comes with a sleek new look, including redesigned icons for key tools like Blueprint, System Monitor, and other Pro Tools. The updated interface enhances usability while maintaining Savant’s commitment to cutting-edge technology, ensuring that the software remains as powerful as it is user-friendly.

Elevating the Smart Home Experience
With SavantOS 11, Savant is not just updating its software—it’s transforming how users interact with their smart homes. The streamlined design and intuitive navigation make it easier than ever to control and manage all aspects of your connected home. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time user, SavantOS 11 ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience.

From the groundbreaking Siri Integration to the upgraded LEAP Integration and the exciting rebranding of da Vinci to SavantOS, this release brings something for every smart home enthusiast. Explore the future of home automation with SavantOS 11 and unlock a new level of convenience, control, and innovation.

For More Information: https://savant.com

The post SavantOS 11 Enhances Smart Home Experience with Powerful New Features and Rebranding appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Kirti Jain Residence designed by Ar. M. Venu Gopal, recently won the Smart Space Award 2024. Its cutting-edge automation systems offer a new level of sophistication and ease to homeowners. 

Nestled in the picturesque city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, the Kirti Jain Residence is spread over an area of 11,021 square feet, with a built area of 6,523 square feet. Designed by the esteemed architect and interior designer M. Venu Gopal, this residence showcases a sophisticated fusion of innovative design and cutting-edge technology.

Awarded the prestigious Smart Space Award 2024, this project is a testament to its excellence in integrating advanced automation systems. These smart technologies enhance the comfort and convenience of homeowners by allowing for seamless control over various aspects of their living environment. 

Space Planning and Design Innovation

The creative aspect of this project is the multi-level design, where different levels highlight the various areas of the residence. The ceiling height in the living room is kept at 15 feet, while the rest of the space is kept at 11 feet. As a result, the drawing room area in elevation features 15 feet high glass, giving the project its distinctive identity. The kitchen and dining areas are raised to separate the living and dining areas and provide the home owners with the required privacy.

This residence stands out for its innovative multi-level design, which enhances the living experience by differentiating spaces through varied ceiling heights. The living room features a striking 15-foot high ceiling, allowing for expansive glass panels that contribute to the residence’s unique identity. In contrast, other areas maintain a more standard 11-foot ceiling height. This design strategy not only creates visual interest but also contributes to a more open and airier feel in the drawing room.

The kitchen and dining areas are elevated, creating a distinct separation between these spaces and the living area. This layout is designed to enhance privacy and create a more intimate environment for dining and cooking.

Integration of Smart Technology 

This project emphasizes the harmonious integration of technology and nature to achieve an efficient and comfortable living environment. Key technological elements and automation practices have been incorporated to minimize environmental impact while enhancing user convenience. 

Smart Lighting and Automation allows for precise control over illumination, optimizing energy use and convenience. For instance, the Honeywell Nucleus Smart Switch enables users to adjust lighting, set schedules, and fine-tune brightness with ease. This smart switch, installed across all switchboards, promotes energy efficiency and offers unparalleled convenience.

Another highlight of this project is the use of advanced security measures, where they have opted for Godrej Advantis Rimtronic Digital Door Lock, this digital lock provides heightened security and convenience through fingerprint recognition, ensuring both safety and easy access.

Hikvision WiFi 1080p Turbo HD 2MP Security Cameras can pan-tilt and offer broad coverage and efficient surveillance at a lower cost, enhancing overall security.

The PIR Motion Sensor Lights (Model SN-PR 05B) automatically illuminate areas when movement is detected, improving visibility and deterring potential intruders.

The Hikvision Wireless Intrusion Alarm utilizes PIR sensors, this alarm system provides reliable monitoring by detecting changes in infrared radiation caused by motion, alerting users to potential security breaches. 

Godrej Video Door Phones/Video Intercom is a standalone intercom system that allows residents to manage calls at the building entrance, facilitating both communication and security.

Ensuring Data Security and Privacy 

To safeguard data within home security systems, several best practices are implemented like Regular Updates through firmware and software updates are crucial for protecting against vulnerabilities. The strong encryption protocols protect data from unauthorized access. The devices are placed on a separate network or VLAN to isolate them from other home network devices, preventing unauthorized access.  Smart devices and home systems are interconnected through robust networking solutions, allowing for centralized control via smartphones or other devices.

The Home Theatre entertainment, includes Audio and Video systems, that is easily managed through integrated control modules. A dedicated home theatre, measuring 17’6” x 14’6”, has been meticulously designed on the first floor to offer an immersive viewing and listening experience. Key features includes a 4K Ultra HD Display, Preamplifier that manages audio and video source selection, ensuring optimal performance. The seating arrangement includes low-height recliners and a 6-inch high deck for comfortable and user-friendly viewing.

User interfaces have been designed to enhance ease of use.  The Hikvision Soundcube Speaker S1: Installed in the office room, supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless music streaming from various devices. The Autozon Curtain Motor used in the living room and bedrooms, allows for remote control of curtains through a smartphone or voice commands, adding convenience and enhancing privacy.

Smart Lighting and Controls

Smart lighting solutions are used to improve energy efficiency and convenience. The PIR Motion Sensor Lights (Model SN-PR 05B) installed on the exteriors, activate automatically when motion is detected, offering both security and energy savings. The Honeywell Nucleus Smart Switch: Located throughout the home, these switches allow for flexible lighting control, including adjusting brightness and setting automated schedules. 

The integrated systems are designed to be scalable and adaptable, accommodating future technological advancements and evolving homeowner needs. This holistic approach not only delivers a sophisticated and secure living environment but also ensures that the residence remains adaptable to future innovations and user requirements.

Project Details

• Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan
• Project Area: 11, 021 sqft
• Built Area: 6,523 sqft
• Architect/Interior designer: Ar. M.Venu Gopal
• Systems Integrator: Hikvision and Godrej
• Lighting: PIR Motion Sensor 6a Sn-Pr 05b
• Lighting Control: Honeywell Nucleus Smart Switch
• Security Cameras: Hikvision Security Camera Wifi 1080p Turbo Hd 2mp
• Digital Locks: Godrej Advantis Rimtronic Digital Door
• Projectors: Sony 4k for justifying the 4k content of OTT, Sony PS, and 4k media player.
• Amplifiers: Analog Amplifier Hikvision 60w
• Speakers: Hikvision Soundcube Speaker S1
• Biometrics: Godrej Advantis Rimtronic Digital Door
• Hardware used: Relays, Dimmers, Fan Control Modules, Curtain Control Modules and IR Emitters
• Networking Devices used: The network of Cat6 provides up to 1300 MBPS and with wave 2 to give the necessary speed and bandwidth and to be future-ready for upgrades by ISPs.

The post A Fusion of Innovative Design and Technology appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Architect Narayan & Associates Pvt. Ltd. has designed a cutting-edge office for a global consultancy engineering firm, incorporating smart automation and technology while adhering to green building standards.

This Engineering Office in Powai, Mumbai has set a new benchmark in modern smart workplace design. Spanning an impressive 15,250 square feet, this single-level office caters to a consultancy engineering firm based in the UAE, renowned for its global presence. The project aims to create a modern, efficient, and sustainable environment that adheres to green building norms while incorporating the latest technology and automation that can be upgraded in the future. This project also won the Smart Space Award 2024 for its innovative use of Automation and Smart Technology in the Workspace Design Category. 

Designed by Isha and Rajjoo Narayan, Directors, Architect Narayan & Associates Pvt. Ltd., the primary goals of their design concept were to integrate smart automation systems, modernize the office space, and ensure compliance with green building standards. By focusing on innovative design and functionality, the project aims to enhance employee comfort and productivity while reducing energy consumption. The design incorporates an open ceiling concept with organic shapes, along with acoustic ceiling absorption materials, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that accommodates up to 200 employees.

Role in Integration of Smart Automation Systems

“As the lead architect, my responsibility was to ensure that the design intent and objectives were met through effective planning and execution. This involved overseeing the integration of smart automation systems that would not only optimize energy use but also create a seamless user experience,” says Isha Narayan, Directors, Architect Narayan & Associates Pvt. Ltd.,

The project includes a range of advanced automation systems, particularly in lighting, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), fire safety, and security. Integrating of these systems is vital to creating an efficient workplace that enhances both functionality and user experience.

“In planning this smart office, we faced several challenges governed by three primary parameters: time frame, budget, and lease length. Offices with lease agreements of more than five years are typically more willing to invest in technology that ensures a modern and efficient workspace. This foresight allows for incorporating future technologies that can adapt to evolving needs.” Says Rajjoo Narayan, Directors, Architect Narayan & Associates Pvt. Ltd.   

To meet the project goals, the team selected leading brands for various systems. For lighting automation, Crompton and Wipro were chosen for their reliability and smart technology capabilities. This selection ensures that the lighting is not only energy-efficient but also responsive to occupancy levels, creating a dynamic environment that adjusts to user needs.

Enhancing Functionality and Efficiency

The integration of smart automation systems has significantly enhanced the office’s efficiency, achieving an estimated 25 to 30% reduction in electrical consumption. The use of technology facilitates remote access, centralised air conditioning control, and energy-saving features, all of which contribute to a more sustainable workspace.

Smart Lighting Solutions

We incorporated motion sensors throughout the office the optimisation of electricity usage was controlled. These sensors ensure that lights are only active when spaces are occupied, significantly reducing energy wastage and promoting a greener environment.

Another important aspect is Security which was a critical aspect of the project, which was integrated through a Building Management System (BMS) with software that allows for remote access via mobile and computer. By utilising cloud storage technology, security measures are both robust and user-friendly, providing easy access to surveillance data from anywhere in the world.

Overall, this office represents a significant leap forward in workplace design and functionality. By prioritizing smart automation, sustainability, and user comfort, this project not only meets the needs of a modern consultancy firm but also sets a precedent for future office developments. 

Project Details: 

• Conferencing Solutions: Cisco 
• Fire Detection: Simplex
• Cameras: Hikvision
• Digital Locks: Dorset
• Biometrics:  ID Cube
• Touch Screens Displays: Samsung
• Smart Lighting: Crompton & Wipro
• Occupancy Sensors and Motion Sensors: Crompton & Wipro

The post Integrating Smart Technology with Green Standards appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Schneider Electric has replaced its CEO Peter Herweck just after a year-and-a-half long stint, citing differences on the implementation of the roadmap, replacing him with group veteran Olivier Blum.

The new CEO, Olivier Blum, 54, has been part of the Executive Committee since 2014 and with Schneider for more than 30 years. Olivier Blum started his career with Schneider Electric in 1993 in France, his home country. He had been in Asia for nearly two decades, in leadership positions as Regional Head of Strategy for China, and the regional MD for India.

Olivier Blum is the Chief Executive Officer of Schneider Electric and Acting Executive Vice President of the company’s Energy Management business, effective November 4, 2024.

Olivier has been a member of the Executive Committee since 2014. In his most recent role, he successfully led the company’s fast-growing and world-class Energy Management business across all end markets, including data centre. Prior to that, he served as Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer from 2020 to 2022, where he led the development of corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, sustainability, and quality assurance. From 2014 to 2020, Olivier held the position of Chief Human Resources Officer at Schneider Electric, driving the company’s people strategy and earning recognition as France’s Chief Human Resources Officer of the Year in 2019 by Cadremploi, Morgan Phillips Hudson, Le Figaro Décideurs, and Fyte for his transformative leadership and cultural impact.

Olivier began his career at Schneider Electric in 1993 in his home country of France. Over the past two decades, he has gained extensive international experience, holding key leadership roles in Asia including Regional Head of Strategy for China, Regional Managing Director for India, and a global role as Executive Vice President of the Home & Distribution division, based in Hong Kong.

Olivier is a non-executive board director of AVEVA Group PLC, where he currently serves as Chairman of Advisory. He has also been an independent director of Keppel Corporation and a member of its Sustainability and Safety Committees since May 2022.

His commitment to sustainability has been instrumental in Schneider Electric’s success, culminating in the company being named the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation by Corporate Knights in 2021.

The post Olivier Blum Has Been Promoted to the new Global CEO appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

zencontrol, a global leader in Advanced Lighting and Building Automation Solutions, is proud to announce the acquisition of a 19.3% ownership stake in Zimi Limited (ASX:ZMM), an Australian innovator in smart IoT electrical devices. This significant investment, part of Zimi’s recent $2.375 million shortfall placement, strengthens the collaboration between the two companies, marking a pivotal moment in their shared mission to drive innovation in smart building solutions. 

The investment highlights zencontrol’s commitment to expanding its influence in the rapidly growing smart technology market. Zimi’s innovative products, including smarter switches, light dimmers, and home automation devices, complement zencontrol’s vision of creating more connected and intelligent building ecosystems. 

In addition to the investment, zencontrol’s Managing Director, Joshua Newell, has been appointed to Zimi’s Board of Directors, further cementing the strategic alignment between the two companies. His extensive experience in global lighting control and smart building technologies is expected to bring valuable leadership to Zimi as it embarks on its next phase of growth. 

“Zimi aligns with our core values,” said Joshua Newell, Managing Director of zencontrol. “Our focus has always been on simplifying and enhancing building control systems, and Zimi’s solutions align with our global sales strategy. We see significant potential to leverage synergies in manufacturing, product development, and marketing, ultimately delivering greater value to both commercial and residential sectors.” Joshua Newell, Director at zencontrol

In addition to the equity investment, zencontrol and Zimi have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop an exclusive range of ‘Senoa Professional’ products targeted at the global commercial lighting control market. This collaboration is expected to streamline production processes and enhance cost efficiencies, positioning both companies for accelerated growth in the smart building industry. 

This partnership underscores both companies’ commitment to advancing smart building technologies and capitalising on the rapidly evolving Internet of Things (IoT) market. 

For More Information: https://zencontrol.com

The post zencontrol Acquires Strategic Ownership Stake in Zimi Limited appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a global leader in wireless technology innovation, announced the launch of the Qualcomm Networking Pro A7 Elite, a groundbreaking wireless networking platform set to transform how people will experience their networks with edge AI integration. Leveraging an AI co-processor with 40 TOPS of NPU processing power, the platform delivers elevated Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and networking performance while also equipping connected devices with powerful and centralized generative AI processing capabilities.

This transformative integration of computing power into the network unlocks opportunities for operators and enterprises to deploy innovative applications and services in areas such as security and surveillance, energy management and automation, personalized virtual assistants, aging in place and health monitoring among others. Edge AI can enhance privacy by processing sensitive information on the gateway while enabling personalization through contextualized understanding of the environment and immediacy through near real-time responses. This approach unlocks the power of advanced AI for more devices, even legacy ones, enabling a more reliable and harmonized user experience across connected devices. 

“With the Networking Pro A7 Elite, we proudly launch the AI networking era, a continuation of our long focus on the most valuable applications and use cases for our customers and their users,” said Ganesh Swaminathan, Vice President and General Manager, Wireless Infrastructure and Networking, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “The Networking Pro A7 Elite integrates key elements – from broadband to antenna – including 10G Fiber, 5G, Ethernet, RF-Front End modules, and filters into one integrated platform. This class of gateways and routers brings transformative AI processing capabilities to not only manage the modern demands of the most dynamic Wi-Fi 7 networks, but also give rise to a new generation of generative AI-powered services that can be more seamless, responsive, personalized, and privacy-rich.”

The platform, designed with developers and ecosystem partners in mind, accelerates market entry and fosters AI-enhanced application development through access to the Qualcomm AI Hub where developers can create new applications and experiences, highlighting Qualcomm Technologies’ dedication to tech innovation and excellence.

This new era of AI networking for Wi-Fi routers, mesh systems, broadband gateways, and access points, fueled by the Qualcomm Networking Pro A7 Elite, is already garnering global industry support.

“Wi-Fi access points are the gateways to the internet and are at the heart of connected experiences within the home,” said Phil Solis, Research Director at IDC. “It is exciting to see Wi-Fi gateways, like the Qualcomm Networking Pro A7 Elite platform, evolving into AI edge platforms. This transformation bridges the gap between cloud AI and on-device AI, paving the way for a new stage of innovation in smart home devices, their user interfaces, integration, and applications. This evolution also opens up new business models for service providers, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of home networking technology.”

 For More Information: https://www.qualcomm.com

The post Qualcomm Unveils the Networking Pro A7 Elite Platform appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

The Ekinex® FF OMNIA series introduces the innovative OMNIA Universal Pushbutton, available in two configurations: Dry contact (EK-ED2-NC) and Open Drain (EK-ED2-NB). Designed for versatile control of lighting, motorized drives, and more, these low-voltage pushbuttons operate within a 5-24 Vdc range, ensuring compatibility with various control systems. Each device features 8 outputs and 8 inputs for driving integrated LEDs, with adjustable current settings via dip-switch, and includes physical buttons and white LEDs for intuitive user interaction.

Installation is straightforward, utilizing pre-assembled flat cables or a backplane with an adapter. The wiring options allow for connections to I/O modules with digital inputs, series pulse relays for non-electronic lamps, or direct integration with the Crestron C2N-UNI8IO interface. The pushbutton operates effectively within a temperature range of -5°C to +45°C, with storage and transport temperatures of -25°C to +55°C and -25°C to +70°C, respectively. It is designed with durable plastic housing, is flush-mounted for a sleek aesthetic, and fits seamlessly with the Ekinex® FF series. The device has a protection rating of IP20, weighs 65 g (including the mounting bracket), and measures 82 x 79 x 19 mm (with adapter).

Included in the delivery are the pushbutton device, a square metal bracket, and both plastic and fixing screws (M2.9×25 mm and M2.9×38 mm). To enhance functionality, optional accessories are available for separate purchase, including the EK-ACC-SCM universal interface, EK-ACC-CAA pre-wired connector, EK-ACC-CAC connector for Crestron compatibility, as well as square or rectangular rockers and frames in Form or Flank versions.

For More Information: https://www.ekinex.in

The post Discover the Ekinex® FF OMNIA Universal Pushbutton for Smart Control appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

TELETASK, a global leader in home automation products and solutions, has announced the opening of its new office and product experience center in the upscale Banjara Hills neighborhood. This strategic move underscores TELETASK’s commitment to advancing home automation technologies and enhancing customer experiences.

With over 40 years of innovation, TELETASK has engineered a range of robust products that provide intuitive control over various systems, including lighting, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), motorized curtains, and blinds, power sockets, audio systems, energy management, and access control. These solutions seamlessly integrate into both new constructions and renovations, transforming living spaces into intelligent environments.

TELETASK recognized India’s growing infrastructure potential early, establishing its presence in the country in 2004. Under the guidance of Kalyanaraman, CEO TELETASK and Venkat Mahalingam, Director, TELETASK the company has successfully completed numerous high-profile projects across various sectors.

Currently represented in 12 major Indian cities, TELETASK aims to expand its footprint to 25 cities within the next year. The new Hyderabad office will serve as a central operations hub and state-of-the-art product experience center. Key features include an operations hub for streamlined administrative functions, a product experience center for hands-on demonstrations of the latest home automation technologies, and a technical training facility to provide extensive training programs for engineers in response to growing market demands.

The establishment of this office highlights TELETASK’s dedication to meeting the increasing demand for advanced home automation solutions in India. By offering comprehensive support and training for technical engineers, TELETASK ensures clients receive exceptional service and expertise.

For More Information: https://teletask.be

The post TELETASK Opens New Office and Product Experience Center in Hyderabad appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Atul Date, Chief of Planning and Architecture at Rustomjee Group, offers a comprehensive perspective on the integration of advanced technologies in real estate development. Under his leadership, Rustomjee Group has seamlessly incorporated building automation, home automation, and smart lighting into their projects. Date’s insights reveal a growing trend towards technology-driven homes, highlighting how these innovations not only enhance operational efficiency and living experiences but also significantly influence market dynamics and property values.

How would you describe the current level of adoption of Building Automation, Home Automation, and Smart Lighting technologies in your projects?
We’ve rolled out building automation, home automation and smart lighting across our projects. These are now standard features that improve operational efficiency and living experience. Smart lighting, automated HVAC and security features are most prevalent.

Have you observed an increased demand or preference among homebuyers for properties equipped with these technologies? If so, how has it influenced market dynamics?
Yes there’s been a significant demand for properties with these features. Homebuyers are valuing the convenience, efficiency and security that automation brings. This has driven the market towards tech-savvy homes which has been positively impacting property values and sales.

Can you share examples of your projects where you have used the above-mentioned technology? Can you share the brand and smart solution used?
In Rustomjee Elements Juhu we have implemented NCC telecom smart lighting, and Toshiba CRC solutions with advanced HVAC systems for Common Areas.  In Rustomjee La Fontaine, we have used US based Lutron Home Automation including Lighting Control, Shade Control & AC control. 

Have you noticed any positive impact on operational costs and long-term sustainability goals through the implementation of the Building Automation System?
BAS has brought down operational costs drastically. Energy consumption is down by Approximately 30% and maintenance costs have reduced due to predictive maintenance. These systems also help us in our long-term sustainability goals by reducing waste and optimizing resources.

What training or support do you provide homeowners to help them understand and use these smart technologies effectively?
We provide full training sessions and user manuals for homeowners to understand and use these smart technologies effectively. Our support includes in-person training, video tutorials and a dedicated helpline for smooth adoption and usage.

Have you collaborated with technology partners or vendors to implement these solutions? If so, can you share details about these partnerships?
We work with several technology partners including Philips for smart lighting, Honeywell for building automation and Godrej for digital locks. These partnerships ensure we get the latest and best technology in our projects.

Have you seen any impact on property values due to the integration of smart technologies?
Smart technology has increased property values. Homes with automation systems and smart solutions have higher market value as they are more appealing and functional to modern homebuyers.

Can you discuss any case studies or success stories where the implementation of these technologies significantly improved the quality of life for occupants or the efficiency of building operations?
One example is our Rustomjee Elements & Rustomjee La Fontaine projects where smart home technology has improved the life of residents. Automated systems for lighting, security and climate control have not only made life more comfortable but also reduced energy consumption and operational costs.

Are there any specific standards or certifications you aim to achieve when incorporating these technologies into your projects?
We aim to get certifications like LEED and IGBC Green Homes for our projects which includes incorporation of sustainable and smart technologies. These certifications ensure our projects meet high environmental and technological standards. Rustomjee Crown at Prabhadevi, Mumbai has been awarded the prestigious IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) certification for its commitment to sustainability and green building.

How do you balance the cost of implementing these technologies with the benefits they provide to homeowners?
We balance the cost of these technologies with the benefits they provide. We focus on areas that have the highest impact on efficiency and comfort and ensure that the investment in smart technologies gives value to the home owners without increasing the overall project cost.

Can you share any insights on how the adoption of these technologies has evolved over the past few years in your projects?
The integration of smart technologies in our ventures has changed considerably over the years. Initially focusing on the high-end market, these technologies are becoming common place within all our housing projects. This evolution is influenced by both technological improvements and more evident customer knowledge as well as desire for smart residences.

The post In Conversation with Atul Date, Chief of Planning and Architecture at Rustomjee Group appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.