Intelligent interiors

The Philips Aurea Flat TV.

Demand for energy efficient, fully-automated interiors is definitely on the increase, Commercial Interior Design discovers

From audio-visual products that blend seamlessly into the overall design, to kitchens that interface with the internet and wireless networks that optimise lighting and temperature, technology is impacting every inch of the interior, and revolutionising the way that users interact with the spaces that they inhabit.

Demand for greater energy efficiency, increased automation and enhanced aesthetics is driving the take-up of technology in the interior. Notably, designers and consumers are seeking solutions that contribute to the overall aesthetic, encouraging providers to create technologies that are visually appealing as well as technically advanced.  

The big picture

With its new generation of Aurea FlatTVs, Philips has made a point of combining cutting-edge technology with iconic design. The new range features the latest version of Philips Active Frame technology, so the outer frame surrounding the TV emulates the colours

on the screen with an ever-changing glow of light. In addition, the improved Active Frame features a new brilliant pearl colour, made from high-quality glass with anti-reflective coatings.

The Aurea, which is available in a 42” format and features a Full HD 1080p LCD display, also includes an invisible speaker system with six speakers fully integrated into its rim.

Aurea can be paired with a white Ambisound Soundbar, a single unit home theatre system that produces an immersive 5.1 sound performance. “Philips has implemented various improvements based on extensive consumer feedback and recommendations received since launching the first Aurea LCD TV in 2007.

 “The new Aurea range has unrivalled levels of functionality, a stunning design with a full-glass front, and offers consumers a unique entertainment experience in their living room,” said Vincenzo Ventricelli, director of customer marketing, Middle East and Africa, Philips Consumer Lifestyle.

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The Infiniti range from TechVision is taking the audio-visual experience out of the living room and into the bathroom with its waterproof LCD televisions. Available as a 7” or a 17” screen, with a modern black surround or mirror finish, the televisions are fitted with a heated glass screen to prevent misting.

The products can be wall or stand mounted – with the option of having the TV recessed neatly into the wall, with no need for sealants.

The high-resolution, wide screen LCD panel is suitable for all wet environments, features built-in ‘Freeview’, offering digital TV and radio, connects to separate stereo speakers and comes with a fully waterproof remote control.

Meanwhile, Dubai-based Galtech has strengthened its home theatre offering with the launch of the Sunfire Theatre Grand Media System. “This is a high performance, modular and scalable media server for music and movies with storage options ranging from 1TB up to 6TB,” explained Leila Hechaime, sales director of Galtech.

“The TGM-100 system is as easy to use as it is sophisticated. Customers can easily load their entire collection of DVDs and CDs onto a highly reliable, enterprise-level storage solution.

“Artist, album, genre, film, director, even cover art, are downloaded automatically using Gracenote online metadata – making it a breeze to sort through extensive collections. A stunning, animated TV interface provides intuitive and instant access to the collection – all at your fingertips from the comfort of your favourite seat.”

Galtech is a regional distributor of home automation products ranging from in-wall touch panels, keypads, wireless control devices, amplifiers, speakers, controllers and home theatre solutions, to sub-woofers and everything needed to get these items connected and working, including cables and accessories. One of its most popular products is the Elan Home Control system.

Leaving home

While a significant proportion of interior-related technologies originate in the home, they are not confined to residential applications. Even what is commonly known as ‘home automation’ can be extended far beyond the
confines of a residence.

“There is great demand for our products from hotels. Hotels are particularly interested because interior automation conserves energy. They already have it in a number of hotels here, and now most of the new ones coming up are requesting it. Our product is more on the residential side, but it can also be applied to small and medium-sized commercial applications,” said Hechaime.

Like Hechaime, Andrew Prince, managing director of RoomWithNet Trading, is also seeing growing interest in smart automation products from the hotel sector. “A lot of hoteliers are very interested in improving the guest experience. Obviously, they are tending to baulk at huge capital investment at this time, however, there are several hotels that we are talking to that are keen to make the step into using this kind of technology.”

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