When a long-time client approached us to design and implement a robust smart-home solution for a historic 4,000 SF property in Boston’s Back Bay, we saw an opportunity to build something truly special. Working closely with the homeowners, architect, and contractors, we leveraged Lutron and Savant technology to create a modern, technologically optimized space that pays homage to the property’s Classicist and Art-Deco design aesthetic.

Balancing technology and history

The property owners saw the project as an opportunity to implement the latest in smart home technology, and envisioned a solution that would make many complex systems work together intuitively. But they were also clear that the technology must be 99.9% reliable and could not overwhelm the carefully considered design. The age and footprint of the space also presented logistical challenges: where to locate core equipment, immovable brick internal walls, and working around HVAC ducts and plumbing behind the walls and ceilings.
We started with Lutron technology to enable control of artificial and natural light, and ultimately encompassed the company’s entire product offering. To ensure maximum control and convenience, we integrated Lutron’s Homeworks QS backbone with a range of Savant A/V products so that house features could be managed from a mobile device, keypad, or Alexa voice control.

Functional and beautiful

The finished system features sleek wall controls, hidden occupancy and temperature sensors, smart shades and drapes, and subtle indirect lighting. It is a comprehensive, intuitive and almost entirely invisible system that not only brings a new level of functionality, comfort, and sophistication to 488 Beacon, but melds seamlessly with the architecture and design elements that define the property.