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PALACE OF PRACTICALITY One man in Macedonia makes life easy for the whole family DREAM APARTMENT This bachelor pad IS all fun and games! A LONDON LOOKER A homeowner pushes buttons when art meets automation

SADDLE UP! Enjoy the ride at this smart home on the range

SPRING 2013 SPRING 2013 Contents Editor’s Note

We made it to 2013! While our writers didn't explore any automated Mayan 10 ART & AUTOMATION temples in Mexico for a feature story, it's certainly a solid fourth issue of Home When it comes to art and automation 7 Smart Home nonetheless, bringing some of the most unexpected environments solutions at home, the owner of to the forefront of automated living. I won’t blame you if you choose to race ahead with your reading now. this mind-blowing London property Otherwise, to give you the lay of the landscape, you’ll join us for a most certainly likes to push buttons. unusual trot to a ranch just outside of Miami, where even the farm animals benefit from a few of the most innovative automated features we’ve seen yet. Better still—you needn’t even take our word for it: If you're reading this via the Flashing light, free tablet version of this magazine, you’ll also enjoy a video version of the story 26 teenaged giggles where you'll hear it all straight from the horses' (and owner’s) mouths. (How A personal essay, from a Control4 could I resist?) But that's not all: We'll bring you two different takes on London living. One employee, sheds light on how to is an amazing residence by the river Thames with a few features that will effortlessly "control" your kids undoubtedly compete for your attention. We’ve got the time-lapse photos to when it comes to bedtime. prove it. The other, you’ll find to be a most magnificent journey down—well, technically it’s up—an Alice-in-What-the heck?-like rabbit hole where you’ll round every corner in this Notting Hill home in anticipation of what you might IMAGINATION find next. Good thing we got a personal tour from the creative bachelor Shanan M. Carney 28 Unleashed! himself. With an imagination like his, we expect we might be back to see [email protected] What happens when a banker- how he continues to blend his passion for unusual art with his clever ideas Control4 Creative Director around automation. bachelor takes creative control over Editor, Home Smart Home And there’s more, of course. Croatia, anyone? Please page on! As always, let his Sao Paulo apartment? It's all fun us know if there’s a smart home you think we should feature in our next issue. and games, of course. 34 20 Email me at the address just beneath my photo to the right.

41 Myth vs. reality We put home automation falsehoods, Home misconceptions, and half-truths under a magnifying glass to separate fact from fiction. Smart HomeLife under control

Editor Shanan M. Carney Control4 Corporation Bright , Corporate Offices Design Jenny Duff 44 Great city 11734 S. Election Road, Suite 200 Special thanks to the following contributors for In this Macedonian home, combining Draper, UT 84020 their top-notch writing and research: Melissa Lane, a dollop of "high-tech," a pinch of Copyright 2013 Control4 Corporation. All rights reserved. Control4, the Control4 logo, and Dave Seropian, Reuben Maness, John Anthony Foley. "glitz," and a lot of "cozy" proved to the 4-ball logo, are registered trademarks or trademarks of Control4 Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other names and brands may be claimed as the be a legendary experience. property of their respective companies. All specifications subject to change without notice. 50

2 3 What's new? YOU ASK. WE ANSWER.

Control4 SVP of Sales, consumers More often than not customers Maximize the power with OS 2.3! options quickly realize they want more Jim Arnold, explains the they’ve from an automation system. The difference between never had personalization they want and need OS 2.3 is purpose-built for high performance and stability so Do-It-Yourself and before and includes control, viewing your Control4 system will work faster, more reliably than ever. allow instant, security cameras, automated The SR-250 remotes just got turbo-charged with lightning custom automation wireless locks, -to-room audio/video fast responsiveness to your commands. The Video Intercom access from communication and other lifestyle experience makes it easier than ever to communicate with Why do I need a Control4® a mobile functions that simply cannot everyone throughout the home (and at the front door). Q.dealer? Can I install the device. be fully executed without an system myself? These automation professional. When you look at popular devices, along with services being The most important element the A.consumer devices these days promoted by telephone companies professional Control4 dealer brings (such as the iPad and mobile app- and security companies are is knowledge. He or she can help based audio, video and thermostat creating more awareness than ever the consumer think through the MyHome, control) it’s easy to begin thinking, about the possibilities of home right options for them. The best “Why the heck do I need a custom control and automation. But in dealer won’t spend time discussing installer for home automation”? the end, those devices are very the hardware. (No discussion about even better Most of these devices and apps, limited in terms of the functionality controllers and matrix switches!) aimed at do-it-yourselfers, give and the flexibility they offer. They will discuss the lifestyle You may already know that the MyHome app turns your smart phone, tablet or personal into the ultimate remote for your Control4 home automation system. But with OS 2.3, you’ll Invisible Sensors for get even more control. Now, you can add, delete or swap Lifestyle Automation out your devices easily—anytime you upgrade or replace them—without requiring assistance from your dealer. Industry’s Smallest: Bright lights, new features Door/ Sensors Motion Sensors Experience a new world in lighting control with an elegant, 3 and 4 Button Keyfobs consistent interface that puts more control at your fingertips, and Stay in Control Door Sensors the ability to customize the lighting scenes in your home—right facebook.com/control4fans Garage Door Controllers from your touch screens or PC. A sophisticated, elegant and twitter.com/control4 Asset (Vibration) Sensors intuitive interface is available on every device—on your TV screen, youtube.com/control4fans touch screens, smart phones, and tablets—so it's easy to control pinterest.com/control4 Multi-Button Keypads lighting throughout your home or business. Personalize and edit Audio Keypads your lighting scenes, your way. Customize your lighting experience by making changes to existing scenes or adding new ones, right from your touch screens or MyHome PC app. P hotography H enry R ebecca Products Available in the Control4 Dealer Webstore

4 5 visit us at www.nycecontrol.com needs of you and your family, and discover what is important to you. LIGHTS, CAMERA, AUTOMATION! Do you want music throughout your home? Do you want to be If there’s one town where the home automation What was once possible only in the fevered alerted when the back door is craze caught on early, it’s Hollywood. For more imaginings of Hollywood screenwriters is now an opened after school? Do you want than 60 years, movies and TV have been showing everyday reality, thanks to Control4. With that in lights to come on when you enter a us home automation at its best. And worst. Most of mind, we thought it would be fun to take a look back dark house or have lighting scenes these depictions are portrayals of what were, at the at home automation in and , and see that create the perfect mood when time, only imaginary technologies. How the times how the anachronistic representations of yesteryear you are entertaining? have changed! compare with the modern realities of today. A good, qualified and trained dealer can help you make the best choices for your lifestyle, and then they can make sure it is installed perfectly and operating just the way you want it to. As Forbidden Planet your needs change or as new possibilities emerge through new A custom installer programs motion sensors, Kwikset keypads and more in this Florida penthouse. development—or even if you get one of the latest and greatest toys easily adapt your system to your over time, Control4 dealers are or gadgets you want to incorporate changing needs. there to support you and your into your system—they can both From the initial concept stage to system every step of the way. This is keep you up-to-date on what is planning and installing your system what home automation was meant new, and leverage the inherent to expanding and accommodating to be. Find a dealer near you at flexibility of a Control4® system to changes that your lifestyle demands Control4.com. ■

“Hello VoicePod”

A revolutionary new Zigbee™ device

for hands-free home control. What we saw: In this legendary sci-fi classic, a crew of Earth men with their own flying saucer discover a mysterious scientist and his nubile daughter living alone on a far-off planet in a very nice house. Dr. Morbius is happy to

Designed for show the Earthlings a few of his home automation amenities, including the original Robby the Robot, -to- steel

shutters, and a handy household disintegration beam. But you better watch out for that rampaging id! “ How to do that: Use a Control4® system to automate ® your own electronic storm shutters, so you’ll always be safe . arner bros By far the most impressive and W from hurricanes, tornados, and intergalactic threats. “ most cool thing at CEDIA 2012! 6 7 Darryl Wilkinson, Home Theater Magazine www.VoicePod.com For big laughs & Bits & pieces little-did-you-knows If 100 million households were to control just one 60W light bulb with one vacancy sensor, nearly 500 million kWh of energy savings would be realized, reducing nearly a billion pounds of That's the percentage of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere each year. business travellers that, prior

to booking, confirm if a hotel 15% of Americans has wireless access. would give up their car for an entire year to be able to keep their Google Glass, tablet; that equates to 45 million augmented fewer cars on the road or 270 reality glasses million tons fewer greenhouse promised from 2 gases (CO ) emitted per year. Google, was seen on the runway of Dian von 63 Furstenberg's Spring 2013 show at New York's Fashion 3 hours Week, worn by In September 2012, several of the the global ratio of models. Google of video is uploaded co-founder, spam in email traffic Sergey Brin, was per minute to YouTube Hungry for cool technology? was 1 in 1.33 emails. in the How about a Bluetooth fork also wearing a pair. that not only pairs with your from mobile devices. om; c u k. o.

phone but vibrates when c you eat too fast. It’s called "Gangnam Style" ym a i l . the HapiFork, made by a Explained? i l om; Da start-up in France called c By the end of If it keeps up, s : wikimedi a .org

HapiLabs. Gobble it up! o t 2012, for just $27 a . wire l e ss man will atrophy om. us c month (half what o. om. Ph o t c Americans typically all his limbs but : xxx; Ruc k o c kp h pay), South Koreans the push-button ym a n t e c . reportedly had op l ef t om; s

c finger. . Every 60 Seconds... ch n G ; Ist st Internet speeds “ o c k.x

320 new Twitter accounts are created, t on P o

t that are 200x faster s : S

o —Frank Lloyd Wright and 98,000 Tweets are Tweeted. t than those in US! s e from t o c kwi e. t ro l A ll i a n c e; m ashabl Home l ig ht ing Con s e from Top: o c kwi C l H u ffing Ph o C l

8 ”9 Weird,

A home automation system keeps up with an art collector’s Wonderful, and ever-changing bachelor pad

Project installation by James Shorter of James Paul AV in the UK. 10 Wired11 Mark Christophers, who co-founded the West Cornwall Pasty Co. in the United Kingdom, had an incredible vision for a tired Victorian house in west London, left. The ground-floor doubles as an art gallery, opposite.

here are more than a few odd and patiently by the to greet visitors on the ground you’ll find a -diner, , home theater/ acquisitions include a majestically crowned and unexpected guests staying at Mark floor. What is this (to borrow a line from the original cinema and . The living room greets you on cloaked toad under a museum-quality covering, and a Christophers’ residence in London, Willy Wonka movie)—a freak out? To some, perhaps. the ground level, and on the first floor, you’ll find two bulldog that happens to be a lamp. To first-time visitors England. There’s William Shakespeare, But to Mark, an avid collector of “street art,” it’s very guest and a bathroom. The top level has of this big-and-bold bachelor pad, it’s the hardly subtle wearing bold and runny eyeliner. (Or much home sweet home. a master suite, with an office area and art that catches the eye. But then you realize that the would you call that mascara?) A skeletal And quite a home it is. In the Eighties, the property terrace on the mezzanine, a flight above, but before interior is quite beautiful and very intentional. “For me, Sid Vicious pouts above the , had been divided into separate flats. Now, after three we make our way up, up, and… let’s meet the king of it was about making every room usable and having a completely exposed—skull and all. A disruptively years of complete deconstruction and reconstruction, BA rtrop ward this castle. different atmosphere,” Mark notes. The multi-floored Tbright-blue dog-like creature with vanilla ice cream it is now restored to a single-family with a “I love twisted art. People like it or they hate it,” home hosts many design microcosms, from a nearly

cones, in place of what might normally be ears, stands uniquely modern makeover. On the lower-ground floor, : HO P hotos says Mark, a successful entrepreneur whose artful all-white beautiful master bedroom suite to the deep-

12 13 What does TruAudio bring to the table for Control4 Dealers? When it comes to audio products, TruAudio offers exclusivity. We don’t sell anything openly on the internet. TruAudio products are only sold through an authorized dealer network. Control4 dealers now enjoy that exclusivity while eliminating competition with both the internet and unauthorized dealers in the market.

What product guarantees does TruAudio offer Control4 Dealers? We’ve always offered high quality products, and that’s allowed us to offer some of the best guarantees in the industry. We have a lifetime warranty on all our speaker and AV rack products. All warranty items are advance replaced to avoid any unnecessary trips to the job which saves time and money. "What’s not to like What Does TruAudio offer Control4 Dealers? when Control4 thinks TruAudio was started by installers, and our sales staff all have installation experience. As a you’re one of the best” Regional Sales Manager, I personally have 13 - Chris Ivie: Sales Manager years of previous industry experience in installation and ownership of an AV installation business. This internal experience makes TruAudio the kind of company a dealer would like to work with. We not only strive for great sounding products, but we also make them very functional and installer-friendly. That’s what motivated our introduction of the first frameless speaker which we refer to as the “Ghost.” Our 2.2 inch SLIM 300 Soundbar, the SAT3 satellite, and THIN-Ceiling A cleverly tiered cinema floor gives every viewer the best speaker are just a few other examples of our innovative line. seat in the cinema. Viewers can access TV, a DVD library, and Internet options like and Can Control4 Dealers access other Apple TV with the same remote. TruAudio products besides audio?

In addition to audio products, we also manufacture FORGE, a complete AV rack line which is also backed with a lifetime warranty. A full array of products are offered such as our THIN

line, Stealth, Core, and on- Relay racks, all manufactured purple velvet voluptuousness of Control4® system, as are the lights, with the same installation ease in mind. a screening room. It’s a design the blinds, a CCTV/security system, scheme reminiscent of a boutique I wanted a home and heating and cooling. “Mark’s “ What does TruAudio like about hotel, a distinct, eclectic style Mark got great input on the aesthetics. draws inspiration from. It truly is a system that He kind of left the technical and working with Control4? feast for the eyes. But one detail how-to bit to me.” Control4 is a top flight company with top flight people. What we you may not immediately detect would add to “I love technology, but I haven’t have enjoyed most is Control4’s welcome and overall is this: The larger-than-life living got a clue about it,” Mark admits. “I excitement about our product and company. Control4 only “my lifestyle, not works with the best, and what’s not to like when Control4 thinks space is fully automated. wanted a home system that would take away … to add to my lifestyle, not take away— you’re one of the best? We refer to them as a partner, and we’ll THE ART OF CONTROL to make it easier.” Mark did an service and take care of all their dealers with that same make it easier. initial install with another company, partnership mentality. Give TruAudio a try and we guarantee it will be a great experience. “I always tell my girlfriend that but frustrated by their limitations, this is my dream house,” says and maintains Mark’s automation turned to Control4 to take the James Shorter, the installer whose system. and audio system where he wanted it to go. company, James Paul AV, designed throughout the house are on a “Control4 fit with my lifestyle. It

888.858.1555 www.truaudio.com 14 15 was iPad-ready, it was on the go, it was Internet-accessible. The other thing I love about it is the fact that the installer can change things remotely, without having to actually come to the site every time, which was a big issue with some of the other providers.” Or perhaps the project simply proved to be too daunting for some installers. Let’s have a closer look at the home’s highlights. Shall we?

TIP-TOP TOWER

The master suite is an all-white, two-story glory at the top of the house. A helical staircase leads from the bedroom up to an office area and with big views of a coveted borough of London. Large overhead blinds specially made in A helical staircase in the bedroom leads to a galleried office and roof terrace, Germany are automated and, at where the skylight is controlled by the push of a button. the touch of a button, can open on command to let in the natural light through a skylight. Even the to the outdoor deck are mechanically automated, and can be opened or closed from anywhere in the house. You’ll also find here—a very nice touch in a house with so many stairs—a handy “Good Night” feature: “I just press one button, the blinds come down, and the lights Residential l Commercial l Hospitality l Retail will go down,” says Mark. “It just makes everything easy.” The living room (home to Sid Vicious and William Shakespeare, by the way) boasts its own LILIN’s HD IP cameras technical gems. “It’s probably my and network video recorders make favorite room,” says installer James. up the first professional grade line There’s a custom TV stand and built-in speakers flush to the wall of surveillance solutions fully integrated so you barely notice them. And by with Control4 home automation technology. the front door is another version of the system’s most useful features turn the TVs off, everything.” purple décor, including dachshund- —the “All Off” button. Similar to Tucked behind a simply stunning dog throw pillows that line a upstairs, with one touch, explains kitchen, where the brick slips for couch. A cleverly-tiered cinema James, “it will basically shut the the floor create continuity between floor gives every viewer the best whole house down: dim all the the indoors and garden , is a seat in the house with the ability lights, bring all the blinds down, viewing room, plush with plenty of to access television, a DVD library,

16 17 James Shorter, the installer whose company, James Paul AV, designed and maintains Mark’s automation system, below. The "loo" just off the cinema features a faux bookshelf. Scratch that—it's actually just wallpaper, left.

The bathroom seems a spectacular place not just to have time is paramount," says Mark. "I've modern and comfortable, and that’s two years’ time would be outdated. a soak, but to immerse yourself in some great entertainment. You'll never wanted my home to be just worked well with the Control4® And, I’m always changing my mind, find the Control4® remote tucked about style.” products. They fit in seamlessly, so I need something that can work into the medicine . Overnight guests can select they don’t stand out, they’re not with my different moods.” their own television, movies, or frightening to look at, and it works Mark’s funky, fashion-forward music from each guest room, or well.” But with a client like Mark, you home may not be everyone’s cup even from the TV in the guest never know what creative surprise of tea. But it’s a great example of and Internet options like Netflix peace of mind whenever he’s on rest anyway. He loves to host bathroom, equipped with its own might wait around the corner. how home automation can blend and Apple TV. In fact, despite the road. “When he’s away he gatherings at home, even if it’s a remote right by the tub or perhaps “Every time I come here there’s a seamlessly with any lifestyle—even the pillows, it’s a favorite spot for can fire up his computer, sign in last-minute decision to do so. “I it’s hiding in the medicine cabinet. new bit of artwork or a new statue one as unusual and in constant flux one regular guest: Tommy, the to my.control4.com, check the love being able to email the house,” “I want technology that people or a new something that we’re as Mark’s. And the best part is, a neighbor’s cat. “He spends more security cameras, turn the lights on explains Mark. “If you’re out, you staying here could access easily and trying to squeeze in and get the smart system can work behind the time here than next door,” James and off, anything he’s forgotten,” can email if you’re coming back for understand,” says Mark. “The icons lighting to work around. It keeps me scenes and allow the homeowner notes. “He meows outside, loudly says James. “So that works well.” a bit of a party. You can get it set on the Control4® screen are very on my toes,” jokes James. So far, to do more of what they love to and persistently, until he's let in. I’d Mark agrees. “Having the ability to up in the party mode: The lights obvious, so if you want to watch he’s been able to keep up. “Control4 do, whether it’s hosting impromptu probably do the same if I was next set a vacation mode so that when will turn on, the music will already something or listen to something, or is very modular, so when Mark all-night parties fueled by Ibiza door,” he laughs. I’m away, the house looks lived in, be playing…” And, once the party you want to change the lights, it’s wants to add a room or an area, we dance tracks, or revamping the that’s a very big issue for me.” is going, Mark can have any of his just very obvious what you can do.” can add bits and pieces on. It all house layout to incorporate a TRAVELING MAN musically-inclined friends guest So far, this house has been an fits in quite nicely together, which giant aubergine-colored frog. Or Fun for all DJ by popping their own iPod incredible automation success story. is great.” whatever Mark may be setting A successful entrepreneur, or music source into a Control4® “The project’s been fantastic,” says “I know how quickly technology his insatiable and inspired mind Mark travels extensively, and his When Mark is home, however, dock. "My love of entertaining and James. “It’s a really modern, cool, changes,” explains Mark. “I didn’t on next… we hope he keeps automation system provides extra he doesn’t seem to get much making sure people have a good funky place and it quite nicely mixes want to install technology that in us apprised. ■

18 19 Views or Videos? In this London apartment, deciding which visuals to take in can be a conundrum

Project installation by Justin Wilkerson, The Media Limited, London, England.

20 21 expressed interest in expanding the system to include audio and video, Ah, decisions, decisions: Which things got interesting. voluptuous view to choose? The “That’s where Control4 really sprawling Thames river, or the works, and ties in very nicely with riveting action flick on the wide- what was already there,” notes screen television, powered by a Justin Wilkerson, whose company, Amotor custom-designed to angle The Media Rooms Limited, installed and tilt at your command in order the system. The apartment now to give you the best possible sports a hearty bundle of viewing viewing angle. and listening options: Audio zones This is the dilemma facing visitors throughout the house, an iPod to this gorgeous residence, nestled 1 4 docking facility, 3 cable TV boxes, in the sleek Montevetro building and Apple TV. And when it comes on the Chelsea embankment of the to movie watching, this system will Thames river in London, England. pamper you like no other. Take your It’s a luxurious 2-bedroom unit eyes off that killer living room view with all the comforts of a plush for a second (if you can), and have pad: High-end built-in bar, walk- a seat. in , fancy bathroom. But The vista-laden living room can the stunning centerpiece—the transform into a stylish cinema focal point of the flat—is the large, without moving a muscle, just lovely living room. Enter this space pushing one button. (Okay, one and you’re channeling little lad forearm muscle working the finger.) Charlie, stepping into the great The blinds are linked to a movie glass with Mr. Willy Wonka setting through Control4. “Just hit himself. Two floor-to-ceiling one button,” explains Justin, “and of glass provide an unencumbered everything fires up: The lights go panorama over the river and the down, the night blinds come down, city beyond. Natural light pours and everything’s right for that into the space, and in the waning perfect movie moment.” hours of day, the light of dusk coats And, just to make things even the modern décor in an almost more comfortable, you can adjust otherworldly golden glow. the angle of the television from any That experience alone makes 2 5 Control4® device. The only hard this property special. But this part is watching the vista out the apartment isn’t just pretty to look disappear as the blinds go at—or to look out from—it’s got its down. But fear not, film buff, you hidden genius, too. can resume the river view with one The apartment’s owner, a globe- button when your movie ends. hopping businessman, originally This automation system reaches had his Control4® system installed far beyond the movie-magic living to automate the basics: Lighting, room, however. Both bedrooms heat and AC. But then, when feature automated lights, blinds, the owner, an American expat, televisions, and audio zones. The ever-traveling owner especially loves the remote-access features; Easy as one, two, theatre! Automatic blinds, wherever in the world he may linked to the living room settings via Control4, be, he can monitor the security lower with the press of a button, transforming the living room into a screening room right cameras, and adjust lights and

before your very eyes. B artrop : H oward P hotos blinds so it looks like he’s there,

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Film fans can adjust the angle of the television remotely. Or pause the movie and lift the blinds to catch a sunset over the Thames, all without leaving your seat. even when he’s not. It also comes “He absolutely loves the system,” in handy when, for instance, the says Justin, who notes he often housecleaners need some extra finds the owner running around light to do their job. the apartment, showing off system Installer Justin is certainly sold on features to his friends and guests. Control4. “It just hits the spot every “And, it’s simple to use—that’s key.” time,” he says. “Its simplicity in use, Now, the owner’s only problem its reliability, and its proven track is that pesky decision-making: record in the field. I predominately Gorgeous views, or cinematic use Control4 for all my projects.” delights? Not a bad problem to And is the homeowner happy? have, really. ■

24 25 Flashing Lights And Teenaged giggles Father and Control4 employee Dave Baker takes advantage of a few clever features to outsmart his teenage boys at bedtime

As a Control4 employee with networking Control4® MyHome app to flash the and technical training, I’m in the process lights in the boys’ bedrooms. Neither of of installing automation in my own home. us had any idea what the reaction would I’m going bit by bit, starting with the “easy be. This was uncharted territory for all of stuff.” I got a bunch of my lighting controls us. The conversation downstairs turned to Ainstalled first, and our family immediately laughter, and we heard our older son say, began to enjoy the benefits. “Okay, okay, we’re going to bed.” My wife One of the challenges in our house is that our and I sat and watched on her phone's display teenaged boys’ bedrooms are directly below the as first one son and then the other turned out his , which is where my wife and I spend light. The boys were in bed with the lights out— much of our time. Eventually we’d like to put in an mission accomplished—with no yelling at all. It intercom system, but until then, we’ve basically wasn’t earth-shattering, but it was a fun moment. had to yell pretty loudly to get any response out And it gave us a preview of where automation will of our boys when they're down in their rooms. be taking our family as we get more and more of it One night—right after I installed and configured the in our lives. lights in the —I made the trip downstairs to tell Since then, we've made lots of improvements to our my boys it was time for “lights out.” We sent our younger system. I added several custom buttons to our family room daughter up to her own room as well, and she was in bed touch screen so we can use flashing lights to page either almost immediately. boy individually, both of them together, our daughter About 30 minutes later, we could still hear our teenagers upstairs, and everyone at once. The same buttons show talking downstairs. One quirk of our house is that we can up on our phones and tablets, so we can easily summon hear them when they’re talking, but they can’t hear us any of them at any time. Also, we've scheduled events to unless we shout. Our boys are 13 and 15 years old. They’re have lights in the kids’ rooms wake them up at the right great friends and love to just sit and chat about the weird time for each day of the week, and let them sleep in on stuff teenaged boys like to talk about. Normally, at this weekends. When the lights go on and flash, they know point either my wife or I would just scream, “GO TO BED,” it's time to get up. but neither of us wanted to wake up our little girl. We're still trying to figure out a way for the house to Realizing that our newly-installed automation system remind them to take out the garbage and put the lid back gave us some new options, my wife chose a quieter on the peanut butter. It's kind of a work in progress, but

: J enny D uff I llustration approach. She simply got out her iPhone and used the it has turned into a regular part of our lives.

26 27 Project installation by Paulo Negreiros Dream Tripe , Sao Paulo, Brazil. Apartment A BRAZILIAN CONTROL4 CUSTOMER UNLEASHES HIS IMAGINATION

ow would you design He’d never owned a smart home your dream apartment? before, but he was ready to make Take a moment to let his dreams come true. Hyourself imagine it. Would First, there was the issue it be a palace of entertainment? of the four bedrooms. It was A wonderland of creativity and more than he needed, and he games? The ultimate party zone? had plans for the extra space. Well for Luis, it was all three. Taking down a couple of walls, And he made it a reality. he doubled the size of the living A bank executive and bachelor room and doubled the size of his in his mid-30s, Luis moved into a master bedroom. new 4-bedroom apartment in Sao Then he called in the dream Paulo, Brazil with visions of home team, Control4® dealer Paulo automation dancing in his head. Negreiros and his crew from Tripe

The master bedroom, twice its original size, complete with bathtub as well as Control4® automated TVs from every angle, above. Luis's dance club, seen here in its secret "living room" mode, right.

28 29 Studio. Luis laid out for them all entire room is transformed into the elements he wanted in his a discotheque. The audio zone dream apartment, but it was up to comes alive, the overhead lights Tripe to figure out how to make dim, and the ancillary lighting is it all work. The extra challenge automated to pulse and activate in here was the fact that Luis loves sync with the music. In an instant gadgets and electronics. He has “The Clubhouse” becomes “The a lot of toys, and uses each of Club!” It’s not surprising that Luis them often—video games, DJ has a constant stream of friends equipment, Blu-rays, , and coming over to hang out at this music components, to name a few. ultimate bachelor pad. Negreiros and his team were faced But movies and music are just with a design dilemma—how could the beginning. When you tire of they work their smart home magic dancing, why not relax with any while at the same time helping of the multitude of games Luis Luis de-clutter? Creative solutions has scattered throughout the were needed. Creative solutions apartment? Rack up the pool balls were provided. and shoot some billiards. Or belly First off was the living room up to the full-size pinball machine home theater. Instead of adding and escape into as many rounds another piece of electronic The game of automation really has no end! When Luis is in the mood for ping-pong, one tap on his as you like. When you’re ready machinery to the already- Control4® Touch Screen summons the game table from heaven. Clear the dance floor, everyone. for a change, step on over to the populated living room, Negreiros other full-size pinball machine and had the idea to tuck the Sony play more. VW200 Projector out of the way Then take a good look around in a modified air conditioner vent, the apartment. Feel like you’ve virtually invisible to the naked eye. exhausted all the fun and games? Now just like in a , You haven’t—just look up. the crisp HD image is projected Negreiros and the team at out of an upper portion of the wall! Tripe Studio had no choice but to Luis does love movies, but even work around the heavy billiards more than that, he is a music table, pinball machines, and DJ man. A focus point for him is the station; but when Luis told them DJ station located in the large he was also going to set up a clubhouse-like living room. With ping-pong table, they saw an one simple push of a button, the opportunity to try something different. Lightweight and collapsible, the ping-pong table lent itself beautifully to playful automation. Now, when Luis is in the mood for table tennis, he presses one button, and the entire table descends from the ceiling. He can stop it at whatever height

tudio he likes—four feet from the floor, Then take a good look around the three feet from the floor, he can even bring it down to two feet apartment. Feel like you’ve exhausted all the from the floor if some little kids

Tripe Studio found a creative spot to T ripe S ourtesy want to play. Another button push, hide the TV projector—in an AC vent, fun and games? You haven’t—just look up. above. Getting ready for movie time and the table ascends once more

has never been so much fun, right. C PH otos out of sight until the next time.

30 31 But the magic doesn’t stop there. Luis has kept his childhood passion for slot cars alive and well with a full table-size working race track complete with Unlock the miniature , bleachers, and spectators. Negreiros saw another opportunity for fun, and suggested they store this nostalgic Possibilities. treasure someplace where it would be protected, but also available at a moment’s notice—hidden in the ceiling. Stand at the billiards table and look straight up. You’ll see a flat white ceiling. When Luis taps a button on his touch screen, a rectangular crack forms in the white, and that entire section begins to descend. The automated lift brings it all the way down to rest on the billiards table, and there it can be enjoyed by all without adding clutter to the room. A magical childhood memory that appears and disappears with the tap of a button. There’s a kid inside all of us, no matter how old we get. Luis recognized Control4 for what it is—a grownup toy and key to infinite possibilities. With the help of Tripe Studio, Luis made his inner child’s dreams come true, and this Introducing the new and improved Kwikset App “Dream Apartment” is a hot spot in Sao Paulo for those fortunate enough to be invited over. The creativity of this entertainment wonderland is yet more proof that Who When Where Control4® technology can be used in unlimited ways. Which brings us back to that all- important question… How would you design your dream home? ■

The innovative thinking of Tripe Studio teamed up with the automation technology of Control4 to craft some of the most Control who has access Control when they have Control where they can unique storage solutions we've seen. to your home. access to your home. access your home.

32 33 Smart Home on A cancer survivor the Range switches life gears to build his dream ranch

ant to know what’s really important “THIS” is Davie Ranch, a peaceful and sprawling in your life? Come face to face with 10-acre equestrian facility about 20 miles north of the possible end of it. Just ask Edwin Miami, Florida. There’s a big barn full of horses, pigs, Melendez, whose world turned upside- and chickens. Next to the barn, people ride horses downW when he learned he had cancer. “Having a life- in a large arena. On the other side, there’s a petting Owners Edwin and Paola Melendez used changing experience, it modifies your perspective zoo with more furry friends: rabbits, goats, guinea their expertise in and your point of view, and it helps put things into pigs. The middle of the barn is a large, adorned event home automation to modernize Davie perspective,” says Edwin, who beat the disease and space complete with a stage, party lights, and vintage Ranch—everything is standing today stronger than ever. “Afterwards, I carousel horses around its perimeter, all collected from from feeding the animals to lighting the realized the things that were truly important to me and antique auctions. The ranch offers riding lessons, day riding arena is on the that’s what I focused on, and this is what’s come out.” camps, summer camps, after-school programs and just Control4 system.

34 35 a place for friends and family to relax and enjoy the company of like-minded equestrians. It’s a slice of country life for city folk, who come here to celebrate birthday parties, ride horses, and get in touch with nature. “This is like paradise for them,” Edwin beams. This is a true working ranch, one that gets up to 3,000 visitors a month. “We’re pretty busy seven days a week,” sighs Edwin. There’s plenty to do. As a home theater installer, Edwin knew he could make life easier for his ranch staff by using automation technology. “This is a production,” he explains. “There’s a lot of moving parts, so the more things we’re able to automate, the smoother things run. The same practices we utilize for our home theater business, we apply here at the ranch.” So, what exactly is life on the ranch’s Control4® system like? Well, as they say around here: Hold on to your hats. “Automation plays a huge role in everything we’re doing,” notes Edwin. All of the property’s Ranch staffers can transform the 6,000 square foot stable from barn to with a few keystrokes on their iPad, above. Rugged luxury in the ranch , complete with televisions, an audio lights, music, and televisions are system, and a old-time stagecoach canvas roof, below. automated. Situated in the tropics, climate control is key. Sensors can detect a rise in temperature and trigger the fans. Security lights turn on at night. Lights in the riding arena are synced, as is a timed and automated sprinkler system that keeps the arena area watered down so the dust stays out of eyes. Edwin also takes advantage of the remote-access capabilities. “We have so many people that are

coming through here,” he notes. “If P hotography oshio somebody needs access, I can just push a button on my phone and I can open up the door, and that’s

all done through Control4 and the , T I nokuchi oshio systems we have in place.” The high tech is hidden, so visitors can enjoy parties, petting It’s a pretty impressive system, zoos, and a piece of the country.

and it’s not just the two-legged : J im T P hotos Square dance, anyone?

36 37

Each of the ranch's 15 horses receives fresh water via an automated system, as do the pigs, goats, and guinea pigs (oh my)! Young city slickers learn to walk, trot, and canter their four-legged friends in the horse arena. Automated sprinklers keep the dust down. creatures that benefit. The staff isn’t always as tech-savvy. parts, feeling sure that you have square feet of construction, watering and feeding mechanics So, it was essential that whatever something that’s reliable, that’s including a main house and guest for the animals are also automated. We entertain 24-7. We need to be ready system Edwin installed here had going to work, so that when you house), so will the system. Edwin That’s great news for Rose, Crystal, to be very intuitive and easy to push the button the song is going quotes a piece of ancient cowboy Desperado, and the rest of the when people come over—the music, “ use. “This is what I do for a living,” to play, the lights are going to turn wisdom: “If it ain’t broke, don’t non-human residents on the ranch. the lighting—so by the time the visitor’s notes Edwin. “It’s very easy for me on, that everything is working, fix it.” Seems you can bring a horse to to use, but I have volunteers and Control4 really has simplified what As frightening as Edwin’s water, and make him drink—if it’s “car comes in from the front to the children that are here. Control4 we’re trying to accomplish here.” battle with cancer must have on the Control4 system, anyway. has been a godsend. The staff And, as widespread as the been, it was also a gift, allowing Automation really steps in as an back we can have everything set up embraces it. It’s very easy for them automation system is here at him to focus on what was really extra ranch hand when there’s an to use the system, to get the lights Davie Ranch, the average visitor important: spending time with his event, and there’s no shortage of with a push of a button. ready, to put the happy birthday would scarcely notice it. “All the family, and turning his vision of a those at Davie. “We entertain 24-7,” song on when it’s time to do that.” electronics, they just complement kid-friendly working ranch into a Edwin explains. “We need to be That peace of mind, knowing the the whole thing, it’s not the reality. “This is where I dreamed ready when people come over— the front gate to the back we can As a home theater installer, system works, makes everyone’s primary focus,” explains Edwin. of always being,” he notes. “It’s the music, the lighting—so by the have everything set up with a push Edwin is a seasoned user of job at the ranch easier. Especially And, as the ranch expands (they’re almost surreal to find myself in ■ time the visitor’s car comes in from of a button.” automation systems. But his ranch C redit R ight P hoto Edwin. “There’s so many moving currently adding some 23,000 this situation.”

38 39 40 41 was designed so that homeowners From high-end developers in least at the pre-installation stage.” controls, and ventilation controls. could add automation to their the U.K., to a new generation This makes sense. If a network “We believe the perfect house and continue to do so over of architects and design firms is “wired” ahead of time, it gives requires seamless integration Home automation is expensive. time and at their convenience. in Spain, to the builders of the the end user—regardless of who that tailors the environment and MainStreet America project in the that may end up being—the ambience to suit every mood or state of Texas, home automation opportunity to make up their mind occasion,” said GM Development. Fis catching on. But while many are when they buy the house. “For a “Inspired Dwellings helped us Because the sky is the limit with Home automation only works when recognizing its value, many others very small investment, they can plan an array of technically home automation, it is entirely you’re at home. remain unaware or misinformed be set up for later. If architects complicated systems from possible to invest a significant of what exactly it entails. A recent are doing their job, they should at entertainment, lighting, heating amount of money. But is it informal survey of developers, least suggest it,” says Jason. and security and ensure they required? Not at all. Control4 dealers and architects in London, As a matter of fact, he believes work perfectly and unobtrusively offers options that can get you up With the advent of apps and San Francisco and Puerto Banus that in five years, this will be the at the touch of a button.” and running with an automation With home automation, you can tuck every mobile technology, there are in fact reveals just how wide-ranging norm. “People want things hidden The company plans on doing solution for what it would cost to tuner, player, and HDMI switch away in a . myriad ways that home automation public perception is about home away; they want clean lines. They a similar project every 8-12 install a new HD TV. can be controlled and leveraged automation, what the most don’t want a box in every room. months, wherein full automation player and a DIRECTV receiver. “It remotely. Whether it’s from a common myths are—and the Many architects stick to what is included and designed was a tower of black boxes—taller phone or computer, people can actual facts of the matter. they know, but the younger, more for the client to move in at a than my TV!” Now all he has is a TV do everything from setting their progressive ones are starting to moment’s notice. Home automation is only for and one from which thermostat to making sure the The market is back incorporate home automation into celebrities and professional athletes. he can watch anything. “All those garage door is closed and that the and home automation their building plans.” Setting the record boxes are completely hidden. My lights are out—or to finding out if came with it Rob Sutherland, Managing straight on home family room is now clutter-free.” their kids are watching TV when Director of Inspired Dwellings automation they should be doing homework. “New build is back,” says Jason in West London, says he has That used to be the case—because Wild, Operations Director for also seen a rise in developers In an informal home automation in the early days, getting a smart Future Lifestyle, the leading incorporating home control in survey, one architect responded, home would cost hundreds of Home automation is hard to learn home technology installer on the new builds. “Developers are “What is meant by ‘home thousands of dollars/euros). and even more complicated to use. Home automation requires the Spanish coast. “New build means using technology to differentiate automation’? The building of Control4 introduced a wireless latest gear, and it all has to be the new ideas.” their products. They want to homes? Lights that go on and approach eight years ago, radically same brand. Jason believes the building add technology and automation off? Refrigerators that make reducing the costs of installation. industry is starting to embrace because it distinguishes them sandwiches? I have no idea what As more and more connected It often doesn’t take more than home automation much more so from the next guy. Also, they the term references!” Another products come into the home, a few minutes of explanation can tell a client commented, "I have no interest in more and more of us want an easy to understand most Control4® You do not have to buy all your that the home systems that allow Larry Ellison way to control everything. systems. Built for ease-of-use, the gear from a single consumer is ready to be to turn on his home theatre intuitive interface streamlines the electronics vendor for home moved into.” and switchable glass entry- user experience and by reducing automation to work. Your devices Rob just door while he's still hopping out five remote controls into one, don’t have to be a certain brand completed a of the helicopter.” Home automation interferes with makes learning it pretty quick. or even the newest, latest and project with While home automation great design aesthetic. greatest. And as for how you a high-end technology is rapidly gaining control it all, you can even use developer GM favor with many homeowners your current smart phone, tablet Development, and every segment of the home Home automation can only be or touch screen. Needless to say, than in the past. Specifically, he based in West Wimbledon. The building and design industry, If less wiring, fewer boxes, and implemented in new construction. there are, of course, apps for that. sees automation becoming part modern Putney West London these responses typify what fewer remote controls is how of a new build and even being residence, which encompasses many think and know about home you define attractive, then home What are some of the myths introduced into the syllabus of 7,500-square-feet, six bedrooms automation, if anything. Here are automation is an upgrade in you've heard about home some programs. “We and two , now also the most common myths about the attractive department. One Home automation is actually more automation? Were you surprised are now working with a lot of comprises a cinema and multi- home automation—and the truth BA rtrop ward user said that before installing a often retrofitted into existing by any of the myths debunked forward-thinking companies who room audio and control system for behind each one. Control4® system, he had a receiver, homes than it is built into new here? Join the conversation on

are embracing this concept, at the television, integrated lighting : HO P hoto a Pioneer , a Blu-ray ones. As a matter of fact, Control4 Facebook to discuss!

42 43 Bright House, GRE AT city

How a homeowner in Macedonia became a master of his own amazing domain

Garden lights, house lights, pool temperature and cover—all automated by Control4.

Project installation by Zvonko Rosic, System Integrator, Rosic, Croatia

44 45 A living room that proves "high-tech," "glitzy," and "cozy" can all work together, left. The majestic front doorway lighting scene, top. Inventive lighting scenes are the trademark of this posh home, above.

roudly situated in the heart the unexpected. In modern day Macedonian who has built his about controlling all that,” confides homeowner and his family found you down to the batcave—er, of southeastern Europe, vernacular, he thought outside kingdom upon innovative ideas the homeowner. themselves reveling in eight HD underground garage—where seven Macedonia is a region the box. Every school kid has and simplistic solutions. In this And then, like Alexander the Great video zones equipped with 400 motorbikes are stored. famous for its storied been taught the mythic story case, the kingdom is a newly-built drawing his sword, the inventive Blu-ray movies, 12 audio zones This is one deluxe smart home. Phistory. At one time an ancient of Alexander and the Gordian super-modern four-level house homeowner drew his phone, and packed with 30,000 songs, 12 floor The entire family is exceedingly kingdom that dominated Europe knot. The challenge was to untie located at the top of a hill with a called Zvonko Rosic, a Control4® heating zones, 12 AC zones, 157 pleased. Their fear of over- for centuries, the land still resonates an impossible jumble of twine. panoramic view of the city below. dealer based out of Croatia. light circuits, 37 automated blinds, complicated systems and too with a sense of high nobility. Alexander stepped up to the knot The Gordian knot here was how to Rosic had the sharp answers our closed-circuit TV, the highest many buttons was quelled once Perhaps this can be traced back and studied it. Unable to discern make this large, majestic house a homeowner needed. With his team standard of alarmed security, and a they were introduced to the over 2,000 years to Macedonia’s the ends of the cord, he calculated cozy family home. from System Integrator, Rosic pool with automated temperature Control4® Touch Screen. The lady most historically renowned son, the only solution and brandished “When we learned how much proceeded to enhance the house and cover. of the house was overjoyed to Alexander the Great. his sword. With one bold and lighting, blinds, AV, and other in an intricate smartweb of creative There’s also a plate of flooring learn that for the first time, she This illustrious king grew his surprising move, he literally sliced equipment must be installed features, all powered and connected in front of the house that happens can now operate the living room empire by having the courage right through the problem. to make it look good and by the Control4® platform. to be an automated lift, thanks to home cinema without another

to apply new ideas, to attempt Today, we spotlight another comfortable, we were very worried , R osic I ntegrator system courtesy PH otos In no time, our intrepid Rosic and his team, which takes person’s help. Even the young

46 47 To keep every meal interesting, the kitchen lighting also has programmable colors, from "family dinner" white to "table for two" red, and everything in between. Seen here, "late night snack" purple.

child, still in the single digits, is not features? One-touch "scenes.” They intimidated by the automation. have a “Good Morning” setting, a He uses keypads near his bed “Going Away” setting, and the one and throughout the house, easily that makes going to bed a stress- controlling whichever audio and free joy, the “Good Night” setting. video sources he pleases. He also Once pressed, all unnecessary became a quick master of the lighting turns off, the night lights in Control4® remote control. the turn on, the HVAC system Instead of building a screening switches to energy-saving mode, room, the homeowner wanted the blinds on the ground floor go to adapt his living room to be down, the alarm system activates, as close to high-end cinema as the garden doors close, and the possible. A beautiful 65” Panasonic garden lights turn on. VX300 provided the HD picture, But their favorite feature is the but Rosic had to figure out what most spectacular—the unique to do about the sound. Utilizing outside lighting. They’ve set it up in a Classe surround processor and such a way that every night of the amps in conjunction with a B&W week showcases a different lighting 9.2 system, all that was missing was scene and different colors, making the popcorn. this house on the hill a work of art, Even the temperature control prettying up the landscape of this was customized to meet the historic region. homeowner's specific needs. Modern living can give each of “The biggest challenge was to do us our own Gordian knots—usually custom programming for the HVAC located in our shoulders due to systems,” says Rosic. This custom stress! But like Alexander’s sword, The light under the bed request was to give the system the affordable luxury of a Control4® can be programmed to any three speeds, and program it to smart home destroys those tense color the owner chooses, giving this bedroom any blow air in the speed best defined gnarls. They simply melt away "mood" in the rainbow. by the difference between wanted when treated with that same kind temperature and real temperature. of solution shared by the world’s Happily, the request was fulfilled. most successful conqueror— One of the family's most used thinking outside the box. ■

48 49 The Automated Home Requires a Well-Connected Home. Make it happen with Control 4 Certified solutions from Atlona.

Atlona audio/video switching, extension and distribution products help installers bring automated homes to life. From device switching to comprehensive multi-room AV distribution, our products and drivers "A little bit of are specifically designed, tested and certified for seamless integration and interoperability to reduce the complexities of designing, installing and delivering the full experience possible from today’s advanced magic..." home automation systems. The minute Colin Scott from that might not otherwise have ET Home Cinema got an email the opportunity to enjoy it from Ian Morrish, Sales Manager, together," explains Moorish. Integrated Systems Europe, "It's just a little bit of magic we about an opportunity to build could bring to a very special a cinema room at Bluebell place." At a press of a button Wood, a children's hospice on a Control4® Touch Screen, a near Sheffield, UK, all systems screen lowers, LED lights, fiber were GO! All products and optics and downlighters go to services were supplied and a pre-programmed scene. The installed free of charge. "We've kids select a movie from the been able to bring the true Kaleidescape server and it’s time

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50 Visit ATLONA.COM/CONTROL4 for details. 51 Elegant lighting. Smart control.

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Learn more about home control solutions at www.control4.com

©2012, Control4 Corporation. All rights reserved. Control4, the Control4 logo, and the 4-ball logo, are registered trademarks or trademarks of Control4 Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other names and brands may be claimed as the property of their respective companies. Photos may not depict actual product. All specifications subject to change without notice.