Our client was referred to us by Jeffreys Interiors, whose showroom music system was upgraded by IDES in 2023.
The owners of The Old Manse, a 19th-century Scottish manse, sought to fully refurbish, extend and modernise the property while preserving its original character. They wanted an advanced, user-friendly home automation system that integrated seamlessly with the home’s aesthetic, offering smart control over lighting, heating, audio, video, security and media room features.
Due to rising inflation, the building costs exceeded the initial budget, leading to constraints that impacted the technology aspect of the renovation. The challenge was to adapt the automation design while ensuring all essential features were retained, despite the reduced budget.
Additionally, the main contractor faced delays, which required IDES to work flexibly to ensure that the system could be installed and functional from day one.
IDES delivered an innovative home automation system using the URC Total Control system, which allowed centralised management of all the home’s electronic systems. KNX lighting and heating were integrated with Bluesound audio streaming throughout the house. A media room featuring NAD amplification and B&W speakers was created for an immersive entertainment experience. Multiple sources, including SKY Q and Roku, were made available across various rooms, and security was enhanced through a DoorBird entry phone and HIK CCTV, all discreetly installed to maintain the home’s period charm.
Despite budget constraints, IDES delivered all necessary functions by optimising the system’s design and components.
The owners were thrilled with the final result. Richard, the homeowner, expressed his satisfaction:
‘From the outset, we have really enjoyed and valued working with IDES. The design showed us functions and capabilities we would never have thought of but have now become “must-haves” for the family for day-to-day living. We loved how the latest 21st-century technology has been integrated so sensitively into a 19th-century house (I know this has not been a simple task). Installation was a challenge with the main contractor running late, but IDES showed flexibility and a “can-do” attitude, delivering working technology from day one.’
IDES successfully integrated modern smart home technology into this historic property, preserving its timeless elegance while enhancing its functionality for 21st-century living.
The innovative automation solutions implemented in this project played a significant role in IDES winning the Gold Award for Best International Installation at the 2024 URC Unsurpassed Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights our commitment to excellence in residential and commercial automation. By seamlessly integrating advanced technology — such as the URC Total Control system and KNX lighting and heating — into this beautifully refurbished 19th-century home, we demonstrated our ability to marry modern functionality with the home’s historical character.
The successful execution of this project not only enhanced the living experience for the homeowners but also showcased IDES’s dedication to delivering best-in-class solutions in the automation industry.