Chelsea Townhouse - using KNX to simplify the project

In the Chelsea Townhouse project in London, the main objective was to overcome the functional issues the developer had seen on previous projects, while providing a greater level of functionality combined with an aesthetically appealing finish.

The previous AV and automation systems used had never really worked for the end clients, especially the heating control which was often cumbersome and over complicated. On this project, the developer had a desire to make the smart home technology as simple as possible whilst still providing all the functionality that is expected in a high-specification property. And this was the time when Mosaic came into play as integrator who could fulfill all these requirements. 

The biggest challenge was to integrate all the building systems including door entry, lighting, heating, heat recovery and air-conditioning in a way the eventual owners could operate the system without tuition or extensive support. In addition an expandable network and audio/video (AV) infrastructure that an occupier could use from day one was required which also needed to have the ability to interface to the control system in the future. 

KNX, the perfect solution to simplify the interfaces

KNX was chosen as the technology to integrate all the electrical and mechanical systems together as it allows them all to work seamlessly together over the same infrastructure. The main products are from Gira, Theben and Zennio (→ check out at Ivory Egg online shop)

An excerpt of the used products:

• Two large KNX lighting control panels in the plant room and one the first floor integrated into the study joinery
• GIRA keypads throughout, with temperature control in each room
• Zennio air conditioning interfaces at each fan coil unit
• Basalte Auro sensors in each bathroom or w/c for motion and temperature control
• KNX floor probes in every under-floor heating zone for added monitoring and protection
• GIRA G1 touch screens on each floor giving overall control and providing an interface for door entry communication
• Control4 system for the audio and video aspects which has full two way integration with KNX
• Fully managed network and wifi solution ensure all systems have robust communication

Benefits for the client 

Contrary to the previous systems used, the KNX system has an established, robust infrastructure that can be upgraded and adapted over time. All the wall mounted hardware: thermostats, keypads and displays have a modern and simple design which guarantees the homeowner simple control of the entire building whilst also complementing the interior design and architecture. And, the remotely accessed network and KNX infrastructure improves service and maintenance capabilities and further simplifies the life of the homeowner.

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The project was implemented by Mosaic

Mosaic - Building Technology Specialist
68 Thames Road, W4 3RE, London 
T #44 (0)2087073246 
E info@mosaic-av.com
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Established in 2009, predominantly as a residential AV business, Mosaic has evolved into a building technology specialist who operate as a consultancy, design and installation business with a focus on integrated customer solutions, either for the personal or commercial living space. In-house CAD, lighting and M&E design teamed with experienced residential and commercial AV engineers, enables Mosaic to cover nearly every aspect of building control and any audio and visual requirement. 

Recent achievements include being involved in a Battersea development that won the British Home Awards multi-dwelling 2017, Control4 ISE winners and CEDIA 2017 best multi-unit design winners.

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