Installation Spotlight

Puerto Banus Style...

Woking alongside one of Marbella´s premier (Quay Property Group) and Banus´s Fendi interior designer (Interiorissimo) we created a one of a kind beach front apartment.
 




HD distribution to all of the screens in this three bedroom apartment. Mulitroom audio playing the clients MP3 collection or streaming internet radio stations from around the world. LED lighting keeps the electricity bill down as well as lighting the apartment beautifully. And the air conditioning not only regulates the temperature, but with air filters and sensors will keep a clean air circulating even when the client is not in the property.




Read more about the installation and see photos of the project in Puerto Banus Apartment or browser some of our other installations in the portfolio section of our website.

If you would like to know more or to book a free consultation contact the Future Lifestyle team at info@futurelifestyle.es or call +34 902 107 227

Why do some people insist that home automation just doesn´t work?

This attitude is becoming more common as our industry matures. The problem lies with peripheral tradesman trying to muscle in on the home automation explosion... electricians, satellite engineers and even computer technicians have all tried to get in on the act... people that do not have the appropriate skill set have been short changing the customer by installing a system poorly... 

you wouldn´t ask dentist to take a look at your feet now would you?? 


We have been to meet potential clients only to be put on the back foot because of the integrator of his previous installation hadn't properly designed and carried out the job. We explain that the home automation systems that he will be purchasing for this home are different and better than his last one. Manufacturers and integrators alike have learned from (and listened to) clients just like him to make the current products enhance his lifestyle effortlessly, rather than serve as a source of aggravation. We have met clients who felt the same way he does and now regrets his decision to not at least pre-wire for resale value. The pre-planning of the design, materials and installation of just the tubework alone for such a system is a worthwhile exercise. It can be used as an added feature of the house when it comes to sell it, even if you do not use the pre-installation yourself.

Systems continue to become more reliable and robust as each generation is refined.

Architects in Spain are slowly understanding that houses of a certain standard should at the very least have some kind of control. Whether is be for the lights, air conditioning or a complete entertainment system. So if you are about to build a new house or renovate your existing home now is the time to think about at least pre-installing for a home automation system.  And if you do want to move into the future, go with a company that has experience in such installations. True, the electrician or even your mate from the pub may be able to do it cheaper, but a well thought out design is the key to a good and secure system. 

 Installations that will grow & adapt to your wants and needs.

In truth 'you can´t win 'em all.....' Some people get their fingers burnt by inexperienced installation companies and understandably do not want to go down the same road again. We feel for these people, they have spent good money and have been sold short and now wonder what all the fuss is about with things such as, HD and 3D content, surround sound amps set ups and Blu-ray DVD. If you are one of those then maybe now is the time to give our industry another try. With the right installation company you will not be disappointed.

Words like simple, improved, dependable, enhanced, easier, stable, trouble-free, less complicated best describe a Future Lifestyle installation.

If you would like to know more about designing a home of the future or you need help with an underperforming installation, give the Future Lifestyle team a call and book a free consultation. Let us help you put your faith back in technology.......

email info@futurelifestyle.es or call +34 902 107 227

The Digital Home

A Digital Home network allows the integration of everyday products to be integrated seemlessly into the home without the need for numerous switchplates  and dimmer switches or remotes to control all the features that a modern home of today possesses - An obvious benefit to the end user as we can see in other more advanced areas of the world, this type of installation is fast becoming obligatory in all reform and new build projects.

A Digital Home installation allows the end user to operate all elements of the home built into one system: multi-room audio / video playback and surround sound installations, satellite systems, security systems, heating, lighting and blinds.

The added value of a home network that a digital home provides far outweighs the actual cost to the client or developer by pre-installing one during the build stage. Many end user clients do not appreciate until afterwards the added benefit this represents and even if they are not planning to utilise the network to its full potential from the beginning, in 5 to 10 years time when they come to sell their property it will still be up to date and ready for all modern day installations which may well end up being the difference between a quick and a drawn out sale.

The importance of a Home Network - (see also our 'Connected Home' article) 

A Data Network with a Cat5e/Cat6 backbone enables stable communication throughout the home for integration of fundamental elements in today's living:

• Fast stable internet service
• High Definition Video distribution to every screen location – streaming of video on demand programs, online film rental and other internet services to all TV’s
• Home office file sharing and networked equipment like faxes and printers
• Linking games consoles and allowing online gaming in multi-rooms
• Numerous phone points with intercom system – with VoIP options
• Speaker points in all rooms for ambient sound throughout
• Touchpanels and In wall keypads installation for control with 2-way communication
• CCTV security

Everyday products can now be integrated so all the different sub-systems in the home work together.

There are 4 key elements a digital home incorporates....

Comfort, Security, Energy Efficiency and Communication.

Control Options - 

User Interfaces

Various user interfaces range from in-wall touchpanels, handheld remotes control units controlling a graphic interface on TV screens, wireless touchscreens and iPad tablets as well as smart phones like the iPhone.

Many controlpanels enable the user to see the files they are scrolling making source and song selection easy as the data will show up on each interface for navigating the system.

In Wall Keypads

A basic in-wall keypad normally consists of hard buttons to perform common tasks such as triggering play, stop, and pause. The benefit of keypads is that they’re usually discreet, reliable, multi-purpose and incapable of getting lost in the sofa cushions.

Handheld Controls - Wifi/Zigbee Protocol

Some still say the trusty handheld remote control is what bests suits them but these days these can multiply into a confusing mass leaving most ordinary people bemused and frustrated. Help is at hand with ‘all in one’ remote controls.

The more developed handheld controls now work on WiFi (wireless) and can operate components anywhere in the house - hidden away and out of sight.

Multi-room audio

A whole-house audio solution adds both value and enjoyment to a home by preventing the clutter normally associated with placing audio equipment throughout the house - Gone are the days when you have a large ‘music centre’ in the corner of each room.

All audio sources can be playable throughout the home with each room controllable independently from the other for source and volume selection which can be adjusted to a constant level throughout or variable.
With MP3's, entire music collections can be stored in small pocket size players or even on your phone as part of the system and shared through all areas with full control and information at your fingertips.

For larger storage capacity, servers can offer full information data including 'cover art' for album and artist or title navigation. This way all zones of the house can access the libraries of audio or video for your favourite music and film folders.

Speakers can be discreet in design and even set in ceilings to blend into the decor of any room. They provide a warm, full bodied sound. 

Outdoor speakers no longer have to be brought in each night after use as they are all-weather, no do they have to be boring or stick out like a sore thumb either.

TV Video Distribution

In the past, video distribution has been most commonly achieved by way of coaxial networks for connection of all manner of satellite receivers in any number of rooms. But this is now being superseded by the more technologically advanced networks.

By installing a Cat5e (with Cat6) backbone network the integration of technologies for video distribution can be achieved and incorporate high definition Audiovideo signalling for installation of satellite HDTV channels, Blu-Ray DVD and file formatted media, to any TV location.

In the future, this same network can be used for any IPTV upgrade as the bandwidth widens and online TV services become more readily available - namely ‘video on demand’.

Most modern televisions now have excellent network capabilities with Ethernet LAN for use with the internet, DLNA compatibility for use with other components wirelessly for file sharing, storage and media streaming, as well as built in USB connections for viewing photos and widgets for browsing weather reports and watching video clips online like You Tube.

And now with the release of services such as Google TV and online film rental, video on demand is vastly expanding as quickly as the bandwidth will allow, so the flatscreen will soon become your monitor of choice for viewing all your video content.

With good planning televisions need not take over as the focal point of a room if fitted discreetly into the wall. This means flush finish and clean lines showing forethought and care in the design.

Security

CCTV

One optional extra is a CCTV system. These days not only can they be viewed from inside the property on every TV screen, but from anywhere in the world via the internet and tied in with alarm systems.

It could also be useful to have the camera images displayed on the touchscreens or iPad interfaces when selected as well.

Door Sensors

By having contact sensors on each of the main doors or windows of a house acts as peace of mind and a reminder. This will ensure that they are closed and locked as they should be. Receive alerts if something gets left open or they can trigger the security system if opened.

Automated Lighting Control

Lighting control provides the ability to change the way a room or home looks and feels. Make your home more beautiful, make your home more secure, make your home more energy efficient, and make your home simpler to operate just by adding lighting control instead of a standard lighting installation.

The use of LED lighting in place of conventional halogen light bulbs are coming more common place reducing the consumption of electricity even more. LED strips and colour changing lighting can highlight an area like the garden or emphasise a feature within the house. All of which can be controlled by the touch of a button or on a timed program.

Some features and benefits to lighting control:

• The linking of lighting zones for fading and dimming down lights simply as well as change an areas appearance instantly with one touch presets.
• Sensors can pick up movement and a light path activated for key areas of the property. Ideal when arriving home with shopping or getting up in the night.
• Other features of lighting sensors is they only trigger lights to come on upon entering an area for a predetermined time period unless it is overridden.
• An ‘Exit’ macro would turn off all lights in the house upon leaving (leaving outdoor and selected interior lights on if required) with the touch of one button.
• In the event of a disturbance during the night an ‘All on’ button can be created to illuminate the whole house at the touch of a button to allow the homeowner to check on the property.
• Installations can also be programmed to react to natural light levels and only come on once the sun has set or an area gets dark or programmed for daylight saving.
• There is no need to have lights working at their full capacity as in standard switch installations. By reducing a bulb’s output by a fraction from its normal load, the bulbs lifespan doubles and electricity bills are greatly reduced.
• The system can be placed into ‘record mode’ meaning the system will record patterns of lighting usage, which will give a realistic illusion of a presence in the property when played back upon leaving to go away.

Automated Climate Control

Under-floor heating and air conditioning - HVAC

Home is all about comfort - now your home can be made even more comfortable with automated climate control. Whether it is simply controlling the house temperature from a single thermostat or using a more complex combination of multiple thermostats, motorised blinds, and remote temperature sensors, with automation control products it’s much easier to find a climate control solution that fits perfectly. We can offer various climate control solutions using the control interfaces available.

This same system can incorporate air conditioning units and be managed and controlled in a similar way to the under-floor heating system.

Other Sub-systems

Video door entry systems allow the monitoring and screening of visitors to the properties. They enhance the value of a property, provide security for the family, and provide convenience especially for those with limited mobility. Entry systems can override while TV watching so the image appears on screen when someone is at the door so you are made aware even if you are submersed in the cinema room watching a film at high levels.


Curtain and blind control can be added to form part of the automated system. Command a single shade or drape to open or close or numerous ones in a number of areas to open or close. You can view the status of each shade and drape on the touchscreen interface and even schedule any or all to open or close at particular times or for certain events like sitting down to watch a film.

Pool and garden sprinklers

Programs can be put in place for the swimming pool and sprinkler systems too so they only heat or use water during energy-efficient and / or cost efficient times of day.


Telephony

As previously mentioned the home network can communicate voice as well as data and an internal intercom system, PBX phone system and VoIP solutions.

Understanding

The Pre-installation of automated digital technology should be a top priority when planning for new projects. Homeowners have much to consider when referring to architects, project management and construction companies and it should be the responsibility of these professionals to offer such networks to their clients in readiness for what our industry now has to offer.

To allow for such technologies during the construction phase is the best way of securing a customers satisfaction whether they understand it now or not. It will be them that thank you later when they realise you have saved them the great outlay of rewiring further down the line.

The Process

To integrate the services of such a system a home network is required. It is important to follow the process of planning for the development at all stages of construction from the design stage as set out by the architect. 
The architect and / or the technical engineer should insist that the procedures for a network installation be carried out using their own designs (in AutoCad or similar). This way all those involved in the project can plan properly the way in which their services can be implemented without encroaching on that of others.

For more information on the design packages available from Future Lifestyle, please contact us on +34 902 107 227

Being green can also be funky......

Check out these light bulbs from Hulger Plumen. Not only are they incredibly funky looking but also good for the planet and your pocket.

This wonderful bulb has a lifetime of up to 8 years, and uses 80% less energy than the conventional bulb.

There is now no need to hide your light bulbs away, as these is ones you would want to show off.  It screws into any standard bulb fitting, gives off a warm white light. You can put a shade over it... but really would you want to??

These Hulger Plumen 001 Light Bulbs definitely make going green appear even more appealing.

For other ideas on how to make your lighting more energy efficient check out the lighting section of the Future Lifestyle website or contact us to find out how we can help.....

Control 4 goes over the edge...

As our homes and technology become more entwined with one another, it makes sense that we desire a central unit to control everything. How many of us have to use a number of remotes just to switch on the TV??
Control4 has the intelligent solution, making it possible for virtually any appliance or device in your home to communicate with one another. And they do it with style as well......

“We’re bringing the elegant InfinityEdge™ line of in-wall touch screens to market at prices that are unheard of in the custom residential industry,” stated Control4’s CEO Will West, “This introduction supports our vision to provide affordable home control solutions that will allow homeowners to access their Control4® system from every room in the house.”


Control4 InfinityEdge™ Touchscreens offer intuitive, fingertip control of lights, music, climate, entertainment and security systems. These touchscreens feature edge-to-edge capacitive glass and the full functionality of Control4® OS 2.0, including a new Flash-based user interface and the ability to access and extend Control4® system capabilities with apps from the 4Store™ Application Marketplace. Full-featured intercom capability is optional and allows customers to monitor rooms, communicate between rooms, or to broadcast messages to multiple InfinityEdge touchscreens in the home.

Future Lifestyle offers the full line of Control4 products to their customers, for the very simple one room solutions to the whole house control system. Control 4 can be installed in modules, so as your needs grow so can your system.. We have expertise in whole house audio, lighting controls, home security and home automation.

To see how you could benefit for a automation system contact a member of the Future Lifestyle team to book your free consultation.

Introduction to good home cinema.

Here are a few considerations when thinking of how to go about your dream room.

It is always good to perform plenty of research, tour existing home cinemas, sought ideas from fellow enthusiasts, and speak to installers and homebuilders when considering a home cinema installation. Incorporate suggestions in all areas - from cost-effective sound-absorption techniques to equipment choices. If you have the right working relationship with your contractor he should field your ideas and needs, and explain how they can be incorporated into the job and within budget.

Here are some ideas for consideration when in the process of making decisions for that outstanding home cinema….

Make style and functionality part of the process and bring it all together...

1) Give It an Elegant Design

Poor decor and insufficient lighting are the main failings of what should constitute a decent home cinema and it must be said affects the whole cinematic experience. There is little point having 'all the kit' if it is put in a room that doesn't have the right dimensions, acoustics and of course overall finish.

Reasons for this cop out is normally down to budget but ways should be found to ensure the whole package can be brought together.

The lighting scenes, seating and overall arrangement contribute greatly to the rooms overall feel and are as important as the devices that create the audio and video.

For true cinema....

2) Build a completely dark room

Perhaps this will be a controversial suggestion because people have different tastes or purposes in viewing environments: Some people think a home cinema is a thing to be enjoyed as part of a larger entertainment area, and some people desire a more “dedicated" cinema experience.

We lean towards the latter but this is not always practical and we have seen a large increase in the installation of systems in living areas for multi-purpose entertainment use.

It's just that light pollution can be considered a distraction and the very essence of a successful home cinema is replicating the actual movie-theater experience so the room will preferably be capable of becoming completely dark.

With lighting key features can be lit to provide sufficient light if done correctly.

An acoustically transparent screen gives a cinema a clean look….

3) Use an Acoustically Transparent Screen

Admittedly, this tip applies only to front-projection setups (which are becoming more popular in the high-def era), but one of the design elements we most like to see is the use of an acoustically transparent screen and place the centre speaker directly behind it and in some cases all 3 of the front channels. 

This obviously leaves cleaner lines and most closely replicates that of an actual cinema but it also means the sound is coming from the most natural direction, where the action is taking place onscreen.

Check out the selections from Draper and Screen Research, and view their room-size and image-size recommendations for this type of screen.

Easy access to equipment with a 'rack'....

4) Ensure Easy Access to the Back of Your Equipment Rack

This is more of an installer requirement as it is unlikely that the end user will ever have much need, let alone desire, to start pulling at any cabling but having access to the rear of the equipment for any custom installer is essential.

Component housing cabinets or 'Racks' as we call them, are vital for not only the maintenance of the equipment but can be mounted in such a way the cabinet allows air to pass through it, reducing the likelihood of overheating thus preventing the chance of faults developing. Additional 'rack mountable' ventilation units can be fitted for those enclosed fixtures where the rack is to be hidden away out of site to compensate the natural flow of air.

Get the best from your system….

5) Calibrate your set up

It is our perception that people seemed to care more about proper image calibration with their standard DVD players than with the newer High Definition Blu Ray versions…

For what reasons we are not sure because surely as the equipment in question is now more advanced it needs just as much if not more setting to reach its peaks..

For us it is essential to use a calibration software package that enables a series of audio and video signal tests to be carried out. Don’t take these state of the art components for granted - they need to be set up correctly to reach their optimum perfoming levels. It is the difference between a pretty good high-def image and an outstanding high-def image. The audio tracks help you balance the sound in the room, giving the right weight to each individual loudspeaker as perceived from the listening position.

It’s in the details

These are some of the details to be considered when designing and planning ahead of construction. There are so many tiny and even budget - friendly details that you can incorporate into your design to take it to the next level you just need to seek the right advice from people that have experince and the ability to carry out such projects.

Lets start by asking “What do you think would be really cool in your cinema?” and then find someone who can make those things work.

To see a full case study of a true cinema installation see our link.

For more on all aspects of home cinema installation speak to the experts -

future lifestyle or email sales@futurelifestyle.es

Lava me up baby...!

A new motorised ‘mMotion’ TV wall bracket, from Swedish company Lava Electronics, will change the way people enjoy TV in their homes, claims the brands European distributor.

The idea is that consumers will no longer have to arrange the furniture in their living rooms around the television. The design of the new mMotion bracket will allow the TV to turn towards its audience, through an arc up to 180°.

The mMotion bracket can be easily installed onto either solid or stud walls, owners can then choose to have their television move through either a left or right handed arc.

There are two models in the mMotion range. The LA 1005 fits all flatscreen TVs from 25in to 37in and the LA 1010 fit models up to 50in. Both are ‘universal’ fitting and will accommodate all brands. In addition, the mMotion is remote controlled, with user configurable preset positions

Plan now for the Future....

Confusion and fear of new technology - aswell as cost, have all been mentioned to us when we have spoken to architects, builders and homeowners on the Costa del Sol about home automation or intelligent home installations.

Not surprisingly then that home automation and home entertainment systems tend to be down on the list when refurbishing or building a new home. Future Lifestyle have created a guide to consider when you’re thinking about upgrading or building a new home which hopefully will prove that planning is everything.

Tips for your future home

1.Tubing for the future – The way homes are constructed on in Spain lends itself to plan now for the future. A well thought-out tube network installed at the build stage of a project will pay for itself in the future. The cost of installing the tubing is minimal compared to the added advantages it can hold.

2.Wire for everything now...even wireless technology – If you are building or refurbishing your Spanish home, start with a plan for future wiring needs. Cable is necessary to support even wireless applications. No one can guarantee what the future brings, however Future Lifestyle make it their business to look at the technologies coming through and likely to become part of our lives in the future and take this into account when designing any integrated home system.

3. Ensure the experts work together for you – Maximise your home by having your architect, builder and interior designer team up with Future Lifestyle from the very beginning of the planning process. All parties will work to create the home of your dreams, at the price you have agreed and in the timescale you require. We provide all of our designs in an AutoCAD format that can be integrated with that of the architects’ for the project so all parties are able to work with us.

4. Insist on integrated systems – Make sure the electronic equipment you are buying can be interconnected and operated as one, if required. Some manufacturers use a closed communication system, meaning that their equipment will only communicate with other hardware by the same manufacturer. This will limit you to what components you can install and will usually come at a premium cost.

5. Integrate lighting and heating control – Going green meets convenience. Get the most out of your system with the least amount of energy consumption. System integration provides automatic energy-efficient adjustments saving you time and money.

6. Think with your wallet, but lead with your head – Quality and long-term dependability are the most cost effective attributes that you can build into a home.

7. Think "green" – By utilising green practices, you can save money by having a more energy efficient system and help save the planet. Ask Future Lifestyle about how you can "go green" in your home.

8. Simplify your life – Easy to use, all-in-one remote controls are available for any system. Future Lifestyle can even custom program them so they make perfect sense to you. New technologies offer control from other devices and even through Internet browsers anywhere in the world.

9. Increase your expectations – Your home automation system is a big investment and you deserve to be satisfied with it. Future Lifestyle can provide you with comprehensive designs, a wide range of product options, a professional installation and especially, a full aftercare service for your system.

10. Consult a professional – Today's home automation systems grow, evolve and change over time, constantly adding entertainment, comfort and security features. Future Lifestyle will be with you every step of the way, from concept and design, through the build process and be on hand to help and advise well after the dust has settled.

Are you interested to find out more? Then why not give Future Lifestyle a call on +34 902 107 227 or contact them at info@futurelifestyle.net to arrange your free consultation.

Sound Design

Future Lifestyle based on the Costa del Sol is happy to announce the installation of a small Video / Audio installation in the new Richard Lewis Interiors boutique shop in Guadalmina´s busy Commercial Centre. Richard Lewis Interiors, Marbella’s premier home design destination for over eight years, are specialists in bespoke handmade curtains, blinds, pelmets, valances and soft furnishings, all of which are made on site by an established team of curtain makers and soft furnishings.

This exciting new boutique is your chance to see the amazingly sleek PMC Wafer One´s super slim hang-on-the-wall speaker, that are designed to fit very discreetly into any room. There's no denying the effectiveness of its 'disappearing act' - although not exactly invisible, it's visually very easily overlooked.

The Wafer 1 sounds significantly bigger than one expects bass lines are quite clear and explicit, but with a definite thickening of upper bass textures. Finished in silky white, grey or black, both Wafer models come in two styles. One is intended to be flush mounted by being recessed into a wall, the other (the ones installed at Richard Lewis Interiors) fixes onto a solid wall, so that it stands proud by a modest 11cm.

Mounting the speakers alongside flat screens often forces them to be mounted in both portrait and landscape orientations. This would normally guarantee compromised imaging from one of these orientations, however the Wafers are fitted with two tweeters that allow them to be mounted in either orientation without compromise to the imaging.
The result is a hifi and monitor speaker that delivers the very best performance from an application that would deeply compromise the performance of any normal loudspeaker... read more

Why not drop into Richard Lewis Interiors new boutique shop and have a listen, or contact one of our sales team on +34 902 107 227 or click here to send us an email........