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

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The Outhouse project in Faridabad, Haryana, designed for the renowned singer, Shrey Singhal by Ar. Amit Marao, founder, Aashray Design Consultants is an exceptional example of contemporary architecture and interior design. The designers have taken inspiration from music and have created a unique spiralling sculptural form that emerges from an articulated plane to create a one-of-a-kind built form.

The home overlooks a vast lawn leading to a semi-outdoor area and a lap pool connected to the sports bar by a glass wall. The double-height lounge is a grand space with a tapered ceiling, and the first floor has a tapered beam that has been utilized to create a shelving system showcasing Shrey’s album covers on ceramic plates. The master bedroom is large with a Versace bed and customized wallpaper as the backdrop. The washroom has a circular jacuzzi in the centre overlooking a small terrace garden.

The Car-Lounge, just across the road, reflects Shrey’s love for exotic cars and is not just a space to house his cars, but a multipurpose lounge where he can hang out with his friends. The interior space of the Car-Lounge has an exposed steel roof and metal girders with life-size sculptures of Hulk, Joker, and Star Trooper, along with graffiti on the left wall that showcases Shrey’s lifestyle. “Since Shrey is very fond of movies, one may find a lot of movie characters in this space. First of all, we have a life-size sculpture of Hulk – which represents raw power. Then we have ‘Joker’ from the Batman series and ‘Star-Trooper’ from Star Wars. But the most highlighted wall is on the left which is completely covered in graffiti – showcasing Shrey’s lifestyle. These elements bring a lot of vibrancy in this space and make it kind of unique.” explains Amit.

Smart Integration

However, what makes this house truly unique is the integration of smart home technology, which enhances the overall experience of the residents. The state-of-the-art home theatre setup on the second floor has a 160” widescreen with a 7.1 channel mind-blowing audio system, fully controlled using home automation. With the use of this technology, lighting can be scheduled, mood lighting can be set with remote control, and full security can be achieved through CCTV and biometric access. The home theatre has an AV system and pre-sets scenes that can be controlled with a single click. The lounge can convert to a home theatre with just one click, curtains come down, lighting dimmers, fiber lights are switched on, AC is also pre-set, and a concealed projector comes down. As per the selection, the home screen appears. This is an exceptional example of how tailor-made solutions can save time and effort with just one click. The HVAC system is fully controlled by automation, allowing the residents to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the house. 

The Outhouse project is an exclusive and unique project that allowed the designers to pursue their desire for unique architectural expression. The house’s personalization with musical sculptures, album covers, and movie characters added vibrancy to the space, making it truly one-of-a-kind. The integration of smart home automation technology is an example of how technology can be used to enhance the overall experience of the residents. The Outhouse project is a testament to how the integration of contemporary architecture, interior design, and smart home automation technology can create a unique and exceptional living experience.

Reference Guide: 

• Architect/Interior Designer: Aashray Design Consultants Pvt. Ltd.
• Systems Integrator:  EzHomz
• Lighting:  Philips
• Security Cameras: AI-Based Panasonic camera
• Digital Locks: Iseo, Multi-point locks
• Biometrics: Ekey access control system
• Networking Devices used: Engenius enterprise

The post Incorporating Innovative Design and Smart Technology appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Paushika Gupta Architecture + Design and Systems Integrator Vineet Jha, Touchlite Automatic Automation has designed a secured and well-integrated home in New Delhi.

Paushika Gupta Architecture + Design is a multi-disciplinary boutique practice from New Delhi. Ar. Paushika believes in implementing inventiveness and vision in all her projects and her style is best defined as, luxuriously modern, with a whiff of Art Deco. The studio designs luxurious residential projects, as well as, commercial and hospitality projects.

This home designed for a young couple located in Nizamuddin, overlooks the Humayun’s tomb (UNESCO World-Heritage-Site) and lush green surrounding from its full-length glass windows. The residence is spread over an area of 5,400 sq ft and has a living area, dining with a dedicated bar, an en-suite master bedroom, a guest bedroom, kitchen, and a study cum den with ample storage.

Concept and Scope of Work

The brief of the client was to create a sanctuary, which would not only reflect their lifestyle and preference but would also be as hands-free as possible. “In short, the client wanted a home with traditional aesthetics yet modern automation techniques to be at power with today’s times.” says Ar. Paushika Gupta. Further adding insight on the design process, she says, “We have included lighting, audio, video, security, HVAC and heating – all combined into one system. Since the client travels extensively, home safety was a major concern, hence, automation systems were to be used in order to be able to check in on their home from anywhere in the world.”

Planning and Implementation Phases

Paushika along with Systems Integrator Mr. Vineet Jha, Touchlite Automatic Automation designed a workable format where HVAC, lighting, audio, video, intercom, and security were integrated together in order to provide a unified and personalized utilitarian experience to the client. The focus was to use only ‘one touch’, to dim the lights, play music, turn up the heat, lock the doors and arm the security system. 

The team has incorporated a decentralised automation system because it provided the advantage of quick installation and easy operation for this project. All devices were connected wirelessly from lighting switches to voice commands to apps on phones.

Smart Home Automation Used

“With Control 4 automation system, we used the EA-3 controller for entertainment and automation, this ensured that the house was able to automate lighting, video, audio, and security. The EA-3 controller is a small modem that can be easily installed behind a television screen. A seamless fully integrated smart home system used for automation lighting switches with predefined scenes, a climate control system, a home theatre integrated into one remote control, air conditioner scenes and a security system via 4sight lets the client take care of their home from anywhere in the world.” says Systems Integrator Mr. Vineet Jha, Touchlite automatic automation.

Advantages of Technology to Homeowners

“With the Smart Home OS3, one can set scenes in keypads, control the humidity and climate inside a space, pair up music in the entire house, etc., for example, a night scene with dimmed down lighting. Or control the home theatre. One can also set a scene for the cooking time in the kitchen where the lights turn up and a home cooking channel starts playing. For the drawing and dining area, the preset lighting scenes deliver either a dimly created ambience or a fully bright room for vibrant discussions, there is also a feature for music that can either be controlled per area or one track can be played throughout the house. The home theatre system is controlled by one app on the phone/ipad that can be used to create a home theatre mood-lit scene along with one touch switching on and off. Similarly, the whole house is made accessible via phone application when the homeowner is away from home or in any part of the world. The security systems get locked by the swipe of a button, along with the curtains getting drawn as per the night time routine and morning routine of the homeowner.” Explains Vineet.

Energy-Efficiency and Green Norms

Control 4 system helps immensely in energy efficiency, such that energy saving does not sacrifice the homeowner’s comfort or convenience. For instance, certain lights turn on and off automatically based on the Control4 system’s built-in astronomical time clock. The lights are never on full brightness level which saves a lot more energy. As a part of the morning preset scene, a select number of lights switch on and similarly at night, all the lights turn off at the click of a single button by the homeowner. The hot water systems, as well as the air conditioning systems, have set the timing for automatic switching on and off which saves energy from endless hours of excessive usage. This saves up enough power to use for other audio and video devices in the house.

Challenges and Precautions 

“While finalising which system to go ahead with for automation, one of the challenges faced was having too many apps to do things. Instead of making life easier, it would be making life harder. Hence, having Control4 for automatic integration in one app was very useful. Another challenge faced was overheating of devices due to high temperatures, the solution for this was a dust-free and well-ventilated environment for the devices, wherein, there is enough space and no device is entangled together.” informs Jha.

Selecting Right Automation 

It is important to understand the needs of the homeowners in order to provide a more comfortable and safe home. From conserving the environment around us to improving the quality of life, home automation is the key to a better future. Hence, it is important to know the focal point where automation is required to minimize impact, to keep in mind the goal which should be to maximise comfort by offering proper accessibility and to be able to customize/future-proof technology with changing times and needs.

Reference Guide:

Location: New Delhi

Project Area: 850 sq yards (7, 650 sq ft)

Built Area: 600 sq yards (5,400 sq ft)

Architect/Interior designer: Ar. Paushika Gupta

Systems Integrator: Mr. Vineet Jha, Touchlite automatic automation

Automation System Used: Control 4

Lighting: Kapoor lights, Asian paints, Good Earth, White teak lighting

Home Theatre: Viewsonic short throw projector with Bose 5.1 system by Sound n Music (Mr. Sandeep Duggal)

The post Secured and Interconnected appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Adani Shantigram, North Park is a palatial home of Nirmal Patel spread over an area of 11,400 sq ft that exemplifies `Modern Zen’. Designed by Ar. Uttamaditya, CEO & Founder, U & I Interiors along with systems Integrator Chipbucket Solutions Pvt. Ltd., this luxurious home is designed to be a personal retreat for the Patel family. 

Apart from the plush aesthetics, the owner wanted his home to be integrated with smart automation systems, including high-tech security measures, remote or censored lighting, and a home theatre. Plus, the designer has worked on reducing the cost associated with regular maintenance and providing easy access to essential functions when the family is away from home. 

The high-tech indoor home theatre with its surround sound and recliner chair arranged in theatrical seating arrangement recreates a commercial silver screen experience. All the curtains and lights are remotely controlled through an application on a smartphone or even a computer screen, which helps in keeping unwanted light out while preserving natural sunlight during the daytime. The lights used also have the colour temperature adaptability, which can be adjusted as per the mood or activities.

The indoor grooming and rejuvenation areas includes a personal salon spa, a massage parlour, and an illuminated mirror that serves as the need of the hour. The main entrance has state-of-the-art smart security solutions like video surveillance cameras with facial recognition which enhances the comfort levels of the family members by providing an additional layer of safety by vigilantly monitoring the surroundings.

Smart Home Automation Products Used 

By integrating smart home technology into their design, the client was able to save both time and money. The designers opted for smart lights and appliances using the homeowner’s smartphone app. This allowed them to avoid having to go through the hassle of turning off all the lights at once when they left for work each morning. Automatic lighting and temperature control in all rooms, as well as access to key features from any device that they had registered with the homeowner’s portal. In addition, by automating various tasks such as watering plants or turning off appliances when they left for work, they were able to reduce the time spent on household chores. The client’s security was enhanced as devices were installed that monitored their environment and alerted them if there was an issue. Additionally, by incorporating sensors in key areas such as entryways and bedrooms, they could automatically adjust temperature settings based on the weather outside. These features made their homes more comfortable and saved them money on energy bills.

Energy Efficiency 

Energy efficiency was one of the important factors while designing this building. Explaining in detail the designer says, “We ensured that the equipment is efficient and used low-energy technologies like LED lighting and motion sensors. We installed insulation and air sealing throughout the building so that the heat could be trapped inside during the winter months. Plus, we have optimized climate control measures using natural ventilation techniques or thermal storage systems. By doing all of this while keeping an eye on our energy consumption, we were able to achieve very significant reductions in our overall electricity bill.

Challenges Overcome 

When working on the smart home project, one of the biggest challenges the designer faced was ensuring that all the devices were compatible with each other. This required a lot of trial and error, as well as some creative solution-finding. Additionally, we had to create an easy-to-use interface so that users could control their devices from anywhere in the world. And lastly, we needed to make sure that my system was robust enough to handle a large volume of traffic – both streaming data and voice commands.

Overall Experience and Takeaways 

“Overall, our experience working on the smart home project was both challenging and rewarding. While there were some hiccups along the way (mainly related to electronics), I’m glad that we persisted and eventually got things done. The key takeaway for me is that it’s important to be organized and have expectations set from the beginning so that not much surprises you down the road. Additionally, stay committed to your project, don’t give up easily, and remember that communication is key.”

Advice for incorporating Smart Home Designers

If you are interested in becoming a smart home designer there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First and foremost, it is important to have design skills up your sleeve. This means that you not only understand how homes function technically but also know how to communicate with clients and manage expectations. You will also need to be passionate about the subject matter and have a good understanding of current trends. Second, it is essential to develop relationships with suppliers so that you can get the best products at competitive prices. It’s also important to stay abreast of new technologies so that you can incorporate them into your designs as they become available commercially. Lastly, it’s always beneficial to train regularly so that you don’t fall behind on evolving standards or technology advances within the industry. With these tips in mind, aspiring smart home designers can make sure that their careers progress smoothly and successfully!

Reference Guide

• Architect/Interior Designer:  Uttamaditya, CEO & Founder, U & I Interiors 
• Systems Integrator: Chipbucket Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
• Built-up Area: 11,400 sq ft
• Brands: Panasonic and Schneider Electric India
• Lighting Controls: Dali
• Security System: Ajax & One Touch
• Software: Apple Home & Control 4
• System Integrator: Chipbucket Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
• Projector: Benq
• Home Theatre: Sonance
• CCTV Camera: Aqua vision
• Other Brand Used: Asian paint, Hettich, Century Ply, Durian Laminates and Greenlam veneer

The post A Perfect Fusion of Decor Styles and Smart Home Automation Systems appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

If you think Smart Homes are gadget-filled spaces, which can be designed by DIY. You need to rethink. Smart Homes when designed with the help of system integrators can provide all the comforts and functional convinces to a homeowner. Following a similar design and integration methodology Interior Designer Rahul Mistri, Principal Designer Open Atelier Mumbai designed a project named `Up in The Air’ where the entire house is automated, including audio, lighting, blinds, and security. 

Rahul approached experienced System Integrator Trescent Lifestyles, owned by Monica and Harshul Parikh for the integration of smart home automation. Adding insight on the design process Rahul says, “Every space is designed and detailed with effortless CEDIA-certified systems to obtain functional perfection.”

Instrumental yet engaging experiences.

In creating a holistic ambiance, the designer has used lighting systems, namely starlit ceilings, aisle lights, cove, spotlight, sconces, and overhead lights to create a dramatic ambiance. Explaining the lighting systems, Rahul adds, “The home is integrated with immaculate lighting modules comprising features like dimming, mood lighting, controlled opulence, and justified lux levels. Similarly, sensory lighting mechanisms with automatic commencement are placed in bathroom spaces keeping late night ease in mind.” says Rahul.

Custom engraved keypads with total controls are positioned in every space for quick access. For bedroom suites, sleek black glass closets are installed with sensor lights that bring a sense of depth and warmth to the overall space. 

Explaining the lighting concept, Rahul adds, “The closet doubles up as a classy beacon of light during late evenings which adds to the spatial luxury of the private zones. In addition to equipped lighting, motorized window treatments are installed in the living room and bedroom spaces.” The curtains for private spaces are on pre-set timing controls. Classic motorised Venetian blinds are used for the open kitchen to achieve ultimate comfort while cooking and dining.

Voice controls for everything!

A centralised Audio-Video system with multi-zone capacity is integrated within the entire space to provide a perfect cinematic experience. Plus, with the added feature of voice command connectivity to Alexa, AV automation provides an impressive infrastructure for entertainment. It is equipped with pre-set commands and instant voice recognition features, adding to the entire listening and viewing experience. Furthermore,

the volume range for every space can be manually controlled with a single remote apparatus. To achieve a seamless look, speakers painted in ceiling colour camouflage the entire visual appeal of the living zones. Similarly, in-wall sound woofers are cleverly installed behind the living room sofa for a streamlined organisation. Air-conditioning and electronic appliances are chosen and installed, keeping an aesthetic interior elevation in mind.

Outdoor Music Control Modes 

Outdoor music systems with ultra-wide dispersion allow equal sound coverage for the terrace and within this residence. In addition, the sub-woofer system chosen for the semi-open deck delivers a clear and harmonised experience. Along with the sound, seamless floor lights accentuate the experiential quality of the outdoors. Overall, planned positioning, wireless equipment, sleek interfaces, and modern designs make this residence an arena of lavish yet simplified design efficiency.

Energy-Efficient Spaces 

Smart Automation systems in this home offer easy-to-use interfaces, and complete installation-to-use guides, and the visual design of current modules align with modern aesthetics and futuristic requirements. With careful planning, detailing, and imbibing the advice of a system integrator, this project is energy efficient and fully optimised. 

Guiding the younger generation of architects and interior designers Rahul says “Factors like energy consumption and finances can be stated for retaining from smart homes systems but with advancement and design innovation – one can propose a balanced and sustainable design solution with complete automated system integration. 

Resource Guide

System Integrator: Trescent Lifestyles – Founded by Monica & Harshul Parikh

Lighting & Audio-Video: Control4 Home Automation  

Curtains & Blinds: TOSO Motorisation  

Audio-Video: Definitive Technologies  

Amplification & Home Theater Processing: Triad & Marantz  

AV Rack: Middle Atlantic 

Cables & Wiring: Kordz 

The post Case Study: A Smarter and Energy-Efficient Home appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Spread across  1000 sq. ft. area, “Singhal’s Outhouse” was basically an addition to their existing property, which was adjacent to this property. It was built exclusively for their son, Shrey Singhal, one of the youngest singer/ composers in India.

Client’s Vision 

The idea was to not follow the concept of a conventional house but to design a space that would allow Mr Singhal to focus on his music. 

Scope of work

This has allowed the reins of design to loosen and gave us the freedom to design something exclusive and different in terms of a residential project. Additionally, it was supported by the clients as they were on a similar tangent of thought. Their requirements were fairly simple. This project was to accommodate their sons’ needs of a living area, a social space, and a music and recording studio. It needed to be designed on a grander scale and had to have a luxurious feel to it. It has a spiralling sculptural form emerging from a single articulated plane that warps to produce 3 separate roofed volumes. This design was done in such a way that the whole structure was divided into various cuboids of volume which catered to their functions. The ground floor was the place where the guests were invited over to, and the first floor was the private space with their living quarters. The second floor gave space to a private Home Theatre and a recording studio. And all these spaces were put together in a way that allowed space for a large garden in the front and a swimming pool at the back of the house. 

Automations integrated

Some home automation technologies aided in the design, allowing for simpler and easier living conditions. One of the main initiatives was into the field of home theatre, which would be completely controlled via an app on their mobile phone or through a control touch panel on the wall on the theatre. Fitted with a 7.1 channel audio system, 3 speakers (Artcoustic- SL Spitfire) are fitted behind the 160” wide acoustically transparent screen. Four more speakers (Tru Audio) are distributed on the rear side of the theatre for a surround audio system. There are a few scenes created and set in the systems to choose from for different usage purposes. For example, in the movie mode the motorized lift projector descends, the mood lights are adjusted accordingly, and the curtains are pulled close. An access control door system is also added to its features. Other than this area, the electrical systems in the house were divided into manual and automated systems. Most of the rooms are working on manual switches for the light requirements, but the hallways and connected spaces have automatic lighting systems that use motion sensors to trigger the lights in these sections. To improve the ease of lighting in vast areas and spaces, scheduled lighting systems have been installed in open areas such as the gardens and semi-open spaces such as the porch and terrace. These lights turn on according to a preset schedule, allowing for flexibility and security with just one click. These solutions aid in improving the efficiency of the system and managing the amount of electricity consumed. The automated scheduling system is not just restricted to lighting fixtures but also mechanisms like water geysers. This allows the user to programme the geyser’s timings ahead of time to prevent having to wait for warm water when it is needed. Other home systems in place are that of their home automation speakers. There is a connected system of speakers throughout the house that can be operated from any room using wall-mounted equipment or the provided app for their mobile phones. This allows for a background sound or music to continue throughout the space uniformly and without any breaks. This has allowed our clients to have a larger space for social gatherings with a constant sound as the bounds in this space. The HVAC systems in the house are also connected to their mobile phones, allowing them to control the air conditioners in their homes from afar to cool down their spaces ahead of time. Aside from these systems, we have security measures in place, including multiple CCTV cameras and access control door systems.

The eventual outcomes 

These technologies will improve the efficiency of the property’s security control and allow for easy surveillance from their remote devices. These technologies have provided them with the convenience and flexibility of managing several devices right at their fingertips. It also improved the functionality of their spaces without involving a lot of footwork. Along with these benefits, it enables them to use energy more efficiently in their home. This project was beautifully planned to meet all of the client’s requirements, and it was pushed to the next level with the inclusion of numerous home automation devices. The clients’ satisfaction said it all

The post Project: Singhal’s Outhouse By Ar. Amit Murao appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

The house combines modern architecture in contemporary style with the highest possible energy efficiency and, at the same time, a comfort that leaves all wishes fulfilled. Comprising ground + 2 floors, this 20000 sq. ft. luxury villa is owned by the founder of one of the top IT tech companies in India.

The Purpose

The main objective of the architects was to create transparency at all levels and create visibility both inside and outside. The basic concept was to use simple yet a state of the art materials, simple design language and a flow of different design elements merging to create a mirage of objects. 

The main intention was to provide a state-of-the-art smart home automation system based on open protocol to primarily control – lighting, HVAC, security, AV. The system and design had to be flexible and upgradeable for any future requirements. The user interface and control function had to be very simple, considering that users in the house would be of all age groups. 

The initial requirement of the client and SI Solutions!

Since the client is from an IT background and is also an angel investor in few home automation start-ups, he knew exactly what he wanted in this house. He was looking for a system, which was future-proof, IoT enabled, multi-protocol, cross-platform gateway enabled, cloud-enabled at Edge and Web. The brief was to provide a fully integrated automation system that will offer ultimate comfort while managing and maintaining the available energy resources.

Entelechy System was appointed as a design integrator by the stakeholders. KNX was selected as an automation system, as it is a standard-based system and was designed keeping in mind the requirements of the client. It is flexible, reliable, secure and connected.

Applications that were asked for and system designed for,

• Lighting: Switching, dimming, light scenes, timed control, automatic occupancy detection, lighting colour control. 
• Heating, Ventilation & Air conditioning (HVAC): VRV controls, central & automatic control, timed operation modes, individual room control/zone control, co2 / humidity measuring, operation integrated with window contacts, displaying error codes of VRV systems on the visualisation and touch panels.
• Blind and Shutter Control: Individual control, group & central control, pre-set positioning.
• Security and Safety: Smoke/fire detection , faults (e.g. leak detection, glass break detection, window contacts) , access control biometric , intrusion detection / alarm systems , emergency lighting ( via ups), supervision/ surveillance (vdp/ cameras).
• Operation and Visualisation: Switches/push buttons, pc visualisation, web servers, touch panels & display panels, tablets and smartphones.
• Automation and Remote Access: Logical functions, system supervision, internet access, remote programming, messaging (e.g. SMS). 
• Energy Management/Smart Metering: Metering, data logging, visualisation, water tank level monitoring, peak demand monitoring, use of renewable energies. 
• AV: Whole house AV distribution based AVoIP ready, 
• Managed VLAN for different subsystems, VLAN based access to the internet with firewall/ w/o firewall. QoS for KNX, Security and AVoIP systems. 
• Network Security: SWG ( secure web gateway and UTM device) firewall, anti-virus systems.

 The First step taken

The planning started from empathically understanding the requirements of the client and all residents of the house. Their comfort level with automation systems was also considered. Certain discovery documents were given to the clients to fill up and discovery questions were also verbally discussed. These answers eventually helped in ideating the solutions. The concept form was shown to the client so that they get clarity on what they could expect from the solution. A system demo was shown and all key components of the systems were explained and physically displayed. Based on the selections, all approvals were taken from the Client and Architects.

An example of a “System Architecture” showing subsystems and interconnections which were shared along with the design basis, is shown below. 

Other systems like data/ AV/ telecommunication and network systems are designed and defined in the “Master system Architecture”. 

Example of Subsystem system architecture

Stumbling Blocks

During the execution of the projects, various discussions and requirements popped up from the client’s end. 

The biggest challenge in this project was,  

• Peak demand monitoring and management:

The client requested architects and electrical consultants to install a utility meter for a lower rating than the connected load. Since the client believes in sustainability and wanted to save energy, he asked to design a system for peak-load-demand monitoring and management. Rooftop solar renewable energy was also utilised as captive energy for the house. The connected load in the house was over 100 KVA, while the utility sanctioned load was 40KVA and renewable energy was around 20 KVA. Therefore, ideally, whenever the load in the house increases beyond its installed capacity, the automation system should be able to manage critical load and non-critical load to switch between different energy sources.

• System is designed to Implement BMS functions like smoke/ fire monitoring, water level monitoring of tanks, pump monitoring, visualisation, storing and printing of reports, trends, history, faults and alarms etc. 
• Since the whole house is open and with walls only on one side 

( back), security was of paramount importance. 5 (layers) levels of security were created in the house. Starting from Perimeter IR detectors as level one, cameras as level 2, watchdog sensors as level 3 and door/ window contacts as level 4 and indoor sensors (occupancy cum intrusion) as level 5.

• Different zones of security were created ( intrusion) and all these zones could be individually armed. For example, if the daughter is alone in the bedroom on the 2nd floor, all other areas besides the 2nd floor will be armed and secured. Any movement in those areas will trigger the alarm and send messages to predefined phone numbers.

Overcoming the Challenges

During the design process, system flexibility was considered.

In this project, every possible technique got integrated with the KNX system so that only 1 app will be required to visualize the entire infrastructure of thousands of functional group objects. To realise the above functions, Logic Machine 5 ( LM5), the world’s leading logic controller, a multiprotocol cross-platform gateway visualisation, was considered

• LM5 was used as a visualization tool for monitoring and control of all the systems installed in the house like lighting, curtain motors, security, HVAC, metering, it also provide APP controls and Voice controls.
• LM5 was used as an interface between the HVAC system (VRV) and KNX System so that HVAC can be controlled from Moorgen thermostat keypads and smart devices.
• LM5 is also acting as an interface between Grid Power/ Solar Power Electricity meters and KNX system and its readings can be shown on the visualization software.
• ABB Security Panel GM/A 8.1 was considered for Zone based controls. KNX interface displays alarm states of smart panel to control automatic functions with the support of security sensors. The system can also be remotely accessed and monitored.

Overall Experience

“Thanks to KNX technology for the various logic functions and better monitoring of energy usage, it offers. The system is Flexible and easy and to modify as well”, states Bhavesh Doshi, KNX Tutor, Educator, GEM CP, and Founder of Entelechy group of Companies.

“With so many functions and subsystems interacting and interfaced across the entire house, without any Central controller, implementing visualisation was extremely important and has proved to be very helpful in critical preventive maintenance.

This project also demonstrates that energy-saving functions and high-level BMS functions can be implemented with KNX using advanced devices like LM5, and there is no need for traditional BMS controllers”, he adds.

Doshi further adds, “Standards-based systems like KNX will ensure a cost-effective future up-gradation system. Distributed intelligence characteristics of the KNX system helped in reducing cabling and its cost. Using TCP/IP as a medium of communication, we could reduce the number of distribution panels across the building floors and also ensure faster and reliable communication of the system. Smart homes and buildings are always an upgrade in comparison to a conventional installation. Thanks to the usage of KNX, the door is now open to integrate new innovative solutions, using the worldwide standard for home and building control”.

“The practice of designing for flexibility and keeping clients’ requirements and ease of use in focus, will eventually lead to happy clients”, he concludes.

Project Details with Products Integrated  

KNX gave freedom to designers to choose switches and keypads (user controls), application-specific controllers, security systems, and central components from various range of manufacturers. 

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