Marlin Manor: Our CEDIA Award Submission for Home Automation Excellence

Take a Look at Our Lighting Design & Smart Technology Installation

Want to discover all that’s possible in an automated home? Have a look inside Marlin Manor, the luxury smart home installation we recently completed here in South Florida. The homeowners of Marlin Manor, as we call it, had a specific vision for their home’s integrated technology. They were looking for a minimalistic aesthetic, and so much of our equipment and installation choices were guided by a minimal approach.

And the results? You’ll find a home automation system that controls every room from a single keypad, dramatically reducing wall clutter across the house. Using a Control4 home automation system, we were able to magically bring this house to life, letting the homeowner intuitively control everything from lighting to security devices—and even motorized clothing hangers!

We were so pleased with the outcome of this project that we submitted it to the 2021 CEDIA awards. Read on to discover all we included in this Lighthouse Point, FL-area home—and how the awards went!

 

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Audio Distribution

After understanding the client and designer’s preference for minimalism, we installed Amina invisible speakers throughout the home. It took special coordination with the designer and custom installers to weave these invisible speakers into the intricate ceiling and even behind wood paneling—without compromising sound quality.

The house now includes 14 independent audio zones and four zones in the guest house, all controlled from a single interface. We also installed Origin Acoustics extreme weather speakers in the covered patio and high-performance Coastal Source three-way bollard speakers on the lawn.

Video Distribution

We combined Samsung Q90 displays and the AVPro video matrix to allow the homeowner to share video sources across eight screens. The available video sources include two cable boxes, one Sony Blu-Ray, one Apple TV, and one Roku, accessible on every TV in the house.

Integration Control

The client had already used Control4 in their previous residence, so we continued with Control4 for automation and control. Seven touch panels were installed throughout the two properties to facilitate full control at all interfaces.

Network

We installed an Arkanis network with both POE and non-POE switches to maximize throughput while minimizing the need for power adapters. To connect the two living quarters, we trenched Cleerline fiber cabling under a city street. We also installed twelve wireless access points across the property for stable and far-reaching Wi-Fi coverage.

Lighting Design and Control

To add an element of mystique to the central staircase, we created a waterfall with LED tape lights that the homeowner can color tune anytime to suit their mood. We also installed a centralized Vantage lighting system in both the main house and guest house. In total, 85 keypads in varying colors and finishes allow for custom actions, including an automated shoe carousel and motorized clothing hangers in the closet. That was a first for us, even after 15 years as a Vantage dealer!

Shades Control

We installed two-way motorized shading control with customized programming that allows Vantage lighting keypads to trigger shade settings. Certain shade actions were programmed to automatically occur without the homeowner’s input to help curb glare in the morning or open the exterior.

Security System

This house is not only smarter now, but safer too, with an Avigilon video surveillance system that provides the highest-level picture quality. Video feeds from four Doorbird video stations are recorded on the Avigilon server so that the client only has to interact with a single interface.

Pool/Spa

Even the pool is integrated with Control4! The family can now control color-changing lights in the infinity pool and adjust the water’s temperature right from their phone or tablet.

How Did We Do?

We’re proud of our CEDIA Awards 2021 Project Finalists designation and believe it is an honor to stand amongst the best of the best in our industry.

 

If you’d like to learn more about the solutions we applied to Marlin Manor—or if you’re looking for a home automation installation in your home, connect with us! Contact First Priority Audio to get started today.