07. Berkshire – A Complete Integration Solution: From Chaos to Cloud-Free Control

Integrating Existing Smart Devices for Ultimate Simplicity

In this project, we transformed a collection of disparate devices—managed by multiple apps and over twenty separate remote controls—into one intuitive, unified system. By building a robust network foundation and consolidating control onto a secure, local platform, we delivered the simple, organised smart home experience the clients desired.

Project Overview: The Challenge of Too Many Remotes

The client, who owns a beautiful 4-bedroom house in Berkshire, contacted us detailing the ‘absolute chaos’ that their current smart setup had become. The house was already equipped with high-quality devices, including Somfy roller blinds in all bedrooms and the living area, Velux blinds, a Honeywell thermostat, several air conditioning units, and several CCTV cameras.

The problem wasn’t the technology—it was the control. Juggling over twenty separate remote controls and multiple manufacturer-specific applications made simple tasks frustrating. They also faced reliability issues, with slow and unstable Wi-Fi on the first floor, and had a separate outdoor gym with very week network signal.

The Solution: Building a Foundation of Speed, Resilience, and Integration

Our strategy focused on total reliability, system unification, and security.

1. Powerful Networking for Seamless Coverage and Resilience
   
   To solve the reliability and speed complaints, we designed and installed a powerful Ubiquiti UniFi network. We strategically placed three high-quality wireless access points (APs) to eliminate dead zones and provide seamless, high-speed Wi-Fi coverage across every floor and out to the garden and outdoor gym.
   
   Crucially, we also supplied the client with a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to ensure critical network components and the main control system remain operational in the event of a power outage.
   
2. Unifying Control and Security Components
   
   We successfully integrated every existing device into our central platform: the Somfy and Velux blinds, the Honey thermostat, all air conditioning units, the existing CCTV cameras, TVs and many other devices. This instantly rendered the mountain of remote controls obsolete.
   
   For advanced security, we partnered with Texecom to install their professional alarm system. The Texecom alarm is fully compatible with our platform, allowing for seamless control and status updates directly within our platform SH-PRO. We also installed high-quality Hikvision cameras and a Reolink doorbell to complete the security suite.
   
   To enhance comfort and safety, we strategically installed crucial new sensors: Window and Door Sensors, Motion Sensors, Temperature Sensors (for optimal HVAC control), Water Leak Sensors, and CO2 Sensors.

Complete Control, Ultimate Privacy: The Local-Based SH-PRO Platform

The final and most critical step was integrating all these devices—new and old—into a single, easy-to-use interface.

We designed a fully personalised 3D floor plan of their beautiful home, allowing for intuitive control via our platform SH-PRO.

Security is our main priority. The entire smart home ecosystem operates on our local-based SH-PRO platform. This means zero reliance on the cloud—all data, including sensitive CCTV footage, remains securely stored within the property. Nobody, not even us, has unauthorised access to any of the devices or the data, delivering the highest level of privacy and control the client was searching for.

Client Satisfaction and Ongoing Partnership

The client was delighted with the fantastic job our team did, successfully moving them from a confusing setup to a unified, simple system that anyone in the household can use effortlessly. While the main integration project was successfully completed, we keep supporting the client and working closely in adding new devices and providing different automations to further enhance their comfort and efficiency..

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