Seamless Integration of KNX and Control4 Systems in a High-Tech Residence

Nestled on the outskirts of Edinburgh, a 15-year-old residential property underwent a comprehensive smart home renovation. The project, spanning over three and a half years, involved the seamless integration of several ADI | Snap One products, including Control4, WattBox and Araknis. Project highlights the technical prowess and collaborative efforts of Function Control Ltd that brought the client's vision to life.

Initially, the project was a light renovation, but it quickly evolved into a significant overhaul due to unforeseen structural issues. A large proportion of the electrical and plumbing had to be stripped and replaced, and the layout of the property changed – with bedrooms turning into bathrooms and visa versa. This is what set the renovation work back and contributed to it being a lengthy project for Function Control Ltd.

Once the layout was set, the primary objective for the technology was to update and enhance the existing KNX infrastructure while incorporating advanced smart home features. Focusing on initially on KNX, Function Control Ltd reused some of the existing KNX equipment. Aluminium Berker KNX switches, still in excellent working condition, were cleaned, tested, resprayed, and laser-engraved, significantly reducing costs. Where reuse wasn't feasible, Gira Pushbutton 4 switches were installed to provide additional functionality.

One of the features that the client particularly appreciated was the detailed temperature monitoring, displaying data through graphs that indicated room temperatures in relation to set points. This not only allowed the client to ensure that the heating system was functioning efficiently, but it also provided reassurance that the home was being heated according to their preferences. For instance, in the large kitchen area with underfloor heating, there was a concern about potential overheating. To address this, the system is set to cut off the heating if it detected that the floors were getting too hot, thereby preventing any damage to the wooden floors. This level of monitoring was also beneficial for the integrators, as it facilitated fault-finding in case of any issues with the heating or hot water systems. The data provided by the system helped in diagnosing and resolving problems quickly and efficiently.

Mark Hardie from Function Control Ltd commented: “I've worked with Control4 since 2007 and KNX for the last 10 years. These two brands work extremely well together, and because of the visual programming software, they are easy to program. We also find that our customers like the Control4 GUI and find it easy to navigate. It’s always a good choice when you've got AV as well control on a project.”

The client, highly technical and detail-oriented, was thrilled with the results. The project not only met but exceeded expectations, providing a highly efficient and customisable smart home environment. The reuse of existing KNX kit, paired with the flexibility of Control4, demonstrated the adaptability and cost-effectiveness of ADI | Snap One solutions.

The client also noted “We have particularly appreciated how seamlessly everything has been brought together – from lighting, underfloor heating and window coverings to AV and security. The level of automation and control we now have, whether via touch panels, handheld remotes or even our phones, makes living in the house effortless. We especially value the in-depth temperature and system monitoring – being able to see exactly how each room is behaving gives us peace of mind and helps us run the house efficiently. Function Control has been an incredible partner throughout – deeply knowledgeable, responsive and thoughtful in every decision. We felt in very safe hands, and the results speak for themselves.”

To view additional photos and videos of this project, please visit: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/cfffda32riy8li7cu00ip/ABUIVANADRv_3th9Wi_pcyU?rlkey=8j4xxlg8947ecj7zl7ooq65jk&st=xe1m462s&dl=0