Design and Installation

The first step was to assess existing equipment that stood the test of time. A full rack of McIntosh gear and a collection of Bowers & Wilkins speakers were prime candidates for integration. These components had aged gracefully, offering superior performance that warranted inclusion in the new setup.

To achieve the desired audio experience, we incorporated Very Small Aperture (VSA) speakers in the kitchen ceiling, paired with a substantial subwoofer located in the crawl space and ported through the kick panels under the cabinets. This virtually invisible setup delivers an audio performance reminiscent of a live Aerosmith concert.

In the great room, we showcased Bowers & Wilkins Signature 801 speakers complemented by the largest in-wall JL Audio subwoofer available. While the speakers serve as visual focal points, the subwoofer remains hidden, maintaining the room's sleek aesthetics.

Visual Excellence

Given the great room's expansive windows and potential for glare, the Samsung 75" Frame TV was the optimal choice. Its nearly non-reflective screen ensures clear viewing from any angle. When not in use, the TV displays artwork and personal photos, transforming into a piece of art that features family moments and cherished memories.

In the den—a more intimate space—we installed an impressive 13-speaker setup using Focal's premium speakers. This includes seven front speakers with four subwoofers, four surround speakers, and four Atmos overhead speakers. The auditory experience is immersive, making viewers feel as if they're part of the story. A Sony 83" OLED TV provides unparalleled picture quality, solidifying its place as one of the best on the market.

Other rooms feature Bowers & Wilkins in-wall speakers, including a unique installation in the shower. The master bedroom boasts discreet yet powerful Totem Acoustic Aero speakers, filling the space with rich, nuanced sound. Outdoors, we deployed 16 Coastal Source speakers with two underground subwoofers. This setup delivers even, high-quality sound throughout the outdoor space while minimizing noise spillover to neighboring properties.

Advanced Media and Control Systems

To support high-resolution media playback, we integrated a Kaleidescape streamer. This system not only provides access to ultra-high-definition movies but also stores family videos, accessible from any TV in the home or even the client's beach house.

The backbone of the home's audio system is powered by a combination of vintage and new McIntosh equipment, a Yamaha AV preamp, and high-powered amplifiers. All music streams through the Yamaha MusicCast system, ensuring seamless audio distribution throughout the residence.

All equipment is neatly housed in dedicated racks in the basement, keeping electronics out of sight except where desired. For instance, a McIntosh tube amplifier is proudly displayed in the kitchen, serving both as a conversation piece and a testament to timeless design.

For unified control, we implemented the Total Control TCR system. This intuitive remote features hard buttons and a simple touchscreen, along with a microphone button that mirrors the functionality of Apple TV, cable, and TV remotes. This allows for effortless control of all home systems, from audio and video to lighting and climate.

Smart Lighting and Shades

Working with our in-house interior designer, we selected Lutron shades for the home's expansive windows. These automated shades adjust according to the sun's position, protecting interiors from harsh sunlight and preserving artwork and furnishings. In more modest rooms, Hunter Douglas shades provide reliable performance and aesthetic appeal.

The main living areas and master bedroom feature Lutron's Ketra lighting, a dynamic LED system that adjusts color temperature throughout the day to align with natural circadian rhythms. Each light can be individually controlled via button or voice command. When showcasing artwork, switching to "vivid mode" dramatically enhances colors, transforming the space. The remainder of the home utilizes DMF Lighting, offering high-end fixtures that provide consistent, high-quality illumination.

Outcome and Satisfaction

The culmination of these efforts is a home that not only serves as a testament to what's possible in modern residential technology but also significantly enhances the quality of life for its occupants. The client now enjoys:

• Simplified Control: One remote and voice commands manage all systems, eliminating the previous clutter of multiple remotes.
• Superior Audio Quality: High-fidelity sound in every room, tailored to each space's unique characteristics.
• Exceptional Visuals: Top-of-the-line displays provide stunning picture quality, whether watching movies or displaying art.
• Enhanced Ambiance: Automated shades and intelligent lighting create the perfect environment at any time of day.
• Aesthetic Integration: Careful design ensures that technology complements the home's modern aesthetic rather than detracting from it.

Conclusion

This project showcases the pinnacle of home integration, blending cutting-edge technology with thoughtful design and user-friendly control. By leveraging both new innovations and timeless equipment, we've created a living space that is both a personal sanctuary and a dynamic entertainment hub. The client's passion for electronics is now met with a system that not only entertains but also simplifies daily life, proving that the best technology is one that seamlessly integrates into our routines.

Ready to transform your home into a technological masterpiece? Contact us to discover how we can tailor a solution that elevates your living experience.