In this case study article we discover how a stunning new London complex is making use of Gira’s intuitive products and controls.
Fitzroy Place, in the heart of London, features 235 apartments, including suites, maisonettes and a penthouse. It replaces the former Middlesex Hospital, of which only Fitzrovia Chapel remains.
To support this fantastic new complex, Gira, a leading full-range supplier of intelligent system solutions for building management, has been appointed to provide a range of ‘smart’ solutions.
Maximum comfort
The apartments, designed by renowned interior designer Johnson Naylor, combine classic English style with a chic, minimalist elegance. The penthouse offers light, luxurious rooms with marble walls in the bathrooms, polished plaster and a roof terrace with bar, cooking area, outdoor TV and audio system. From here occupants can enjoy the spectacular view of London’s West End and the BT Tower.
The cabled Gira Smart Building system has been installed in the penthouse, giving users maximum comfort and excellent security. It also offers the opportunity to integrate audio, video and monitoring systems, as well as programme the unit, based on personal preferences and needs. KNX also permits integration of devices from other manufacturers. The devices communicate in the same programming language (IP) across all aspects, and can be implemented using a single software tool (ETS).
Integrating climate control into the KNX system was a particular challenge due to its complexity. Here, individual systems had to be able to communicate with one another in order to efficiently regulate the temperature in the penthouse: underfloor heating, electric heated floor mats, various fan coil units and a gas fireplace.
The sunlight coming through the 7m high windows also had to be taken into account in the temperature control. The temperature is controlled based on a defined set-point value. Thermostats in the rooms then ensure efficient, individual temperature regulation.
Complete control
The Gira HomeServer is used to control complex tasks and scenarios. With this and the corresponding intuitive operating devices, users have complete control over their space, receiving status feedback for all functions.
The aim of the system technology was to implement this powerful KNX system through a visually appealing and intuitive user interface. The control panels on the walls had to fit in with the clean design of the penthouse. In addition, the touch sensors had to be modern and minimalist.
With this in mind, the Gira E22 design line in aluminium was chosen, mounted flat on the wall. Each touch sensor is laser-labelled, providing a clear overview of the various functions. Light scenes, heating, ventilation, air conditioning technology and curtain control have all been integrated.
Because the specialists at “Sound & Vision”, the installing company, offer remote maintenance of their KNX systems as standard, the status of devices can be checked from outside and any errors can be diagnosed and remedied without the user having to be disturbed. The basis for this is once again the Gira HomeServer and a virtual private network.
WHAT WAS USED?
- Gira KNX system
An intelligent solution for networking and controlling building technology.
- Gira HomeServer
The on-board computer for intelligent buildings.
- Gira touch sensors
Allowing many intelligent building technology functions to be conveniently controlled at the press of a button
- Gira E22 design line
Protrudes from the wall by only 3mm and can be installed flat on the wall in 1-gang to 4-gang frames. 1-gang to 5-gang frames can be used for mounting in a 58mm flush-mounted device box.
For more information about Gira’s range of intelligent products and solutions visit: www.gira.com/en