March 31st, 2012

Hot Properties: Grovenor House, #1506

Grovernor House is Coconut Grove’s most luxurious building, offering unparalleled convenience and amenities. We were lucky enough to get a tour of this newly listed unit recently, here are a few of the many highlights.

Grovenor House is located at 2627 S. Bayshore Drive, within walking distance to The Fresh Market and Marinas:

This unit features a private elevator lobby, 9′ ceilings, and a 379 s/f balcony that showcases panoramic bay views. Here’s a quick look at that amazing view:

It is a roomy two bedroom, two bath, with an additional powder room. The hardwood floors are immaculate, and the Snaidero kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances:

The bathrooms are beautifully done in tasteful marble:

Even with all of these features, our favorite was the roomy balcony overlooking the bay and marinas:

The unit is a blank slate for your own personal touch, and is the perfect layout for the hottest Smart Home technology.

To learn more about this unit, or to schedule an appointment to view it, you can visit the listing page here:

http://www.grovenorhouse1506.com/

September 27th, 2011

What is a Smart Home? Part 2

The term Smart Home is tossed around a lot, but what, really, does that mean? We’ve decided to showcase one of our favorite projects to take away some of the mystery.

If you haven’t read Part One, where we tour the residence, you can do so HERE.

There are many different products you can use as the “brain” in your Intelligent Home. Its important to hire a company you trust to make sure you have the right system for you and your budget.

The system we used here, on the Continuum project, was Crestron. Creston is definitely on the high end of home control, and may not fit into everyone’s budget. However, in recent years, Crestron has made a few advances in creating more affordable products.

Luckily, budget wasn’t a concern for this particular client. They wanted to be able to tie all of their home together:

They also had some interesting designer touches they wanted to be able to control, such as an automated in-ceiling projector, and screen:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And a custom LED lighted wall, with a motorized privacy curtain:

All of these systems and separate technologies are programmed and connected to the Crestron “brain”. Now the homeowners can control everything from several locations in the home, and even remotely from anywhere in the world.

Within the home, the system is controlled via Touch Panels, like this one:

The touch panel above can either be used in-wall, where it charges, or be removed for portability. There are also several keypads throughout the house, like the one shown below the touch panel. The system can also be controlled via iPad & iPhone, for the ultimate in portable convenience.

This particular property is owned by a very generous individual, who allows it to be used by extended family, friends, and clients. This means the system has to be easy to use, and pretty self explanatory.

Now that we’re familiar with the equipment, and how to control it, lets move on to what it can do, next time in Part 3.

Give us a call for a complimentary consultation:

305-652-1138, or click to Contact Us.

 

September 16th, 2011

Smart Homes & Automation

Comfort, convenience, and a greener way to live, right at your fingertips. IntelligentDesign will give you an Intelligent Home, whatever your needs or budget.

We make it possible for virtually any device or appliance in your home to communicate with each other, Intelligently.Touch Panel Lights, Thermostat, Drapes, Door Locks, even Outlets, all programmable, and controllable, no matter where you are.

Once we have your system in place, we will customize it to your lifestyle, working with you to focus on your priorities.

We’ll start with the basics, for example, your outside lights coming on at sunset, and turning off at sunrise. Then you let us know what other lighting scenarios you want, such as a “goodnight” button that turns off all lights; Or an alarm scenario that turns on all the lights in the house if your alarm gets tripped.

Tell us how your life could be easier, and we’ll teach your system how to help you out.

Would you like to receive an email when your housekeeper arrives and enters her code in your SmartLock? Or when your kids get home from school? No more worrying about lights left on, or the garage door left open. Not only will your system alert you, you’ll be able to shut off a light or close your garage door from wherever you are.

There’s really no end to the possibilities. Below are just a few of the things that can be a part of your Intelligent Home, and customized to your lifestyle.

Give us a call, lets talk about your Intelligent Home: 305-652-1138

Or, click here to Contact Us.

September 13th, 2011

Control Systems

There are so many parts and pieces that make up an efficient office or retail space, IntelligentDesign is here to help you put them all together.

We’ll show you how to increase your bottom line by putting controls in place that let you concentrate on what’s really important: your business.

Applying Intelligent Technology can decrease overhead, and boost profits and productivity. Here are a few ways we can change the way you do business:

  • Lighting Control is one of the easiest ways to increase energy efficiency. Through the installation of occupancy sensors, and controllable switches and dimmers you’ll be able to decrease your energy bill dramatically.
  • HVAC systems are where many businesses waste the most energy. We will co-ordinate your climate to fit your company’s schedule and needs.
  • Security & Surveillance are always a major concern. IntelligentDesign will work with you to create a safety net around your business. From security cameras to access control, we’ll help keep what’s important to you safe.
  • Motorized Window Treatments add beauty, efficiency, and convenience to your workplace. We offer an array of styles, one is sure compliment your design, and set the mood you’re looking for.
  • Boardrooms & Video Conferencing planning and installation is made easy with IntelligentDesign.We’ll work within your needs and budget, giving you an individual, simple to use solution.
  • Audio & Video will shape the mood and tone of your work space, and can even convey your brand message or company culture. Use display panels to show the news, what’s going on with the stock market, corporate videos, or anything you like. Display panels can also double as Digital Signage, always keeping your message up front.

These systems can be installed separately, or integrated to work together to give you the highest level of elegant control.

Give us a call, lets talk about what you have in mind to take your business to the next level: 305-652-1138

 

August 27th, 2011

Furniture & Lifts

We offer an endless variety of furniture, in all sizes and styles. We have options for home, office & marine, that can enhance or hide your equipment. Not sure what you want or need? No problem, we have plenty of examples that will provide inspiration.

Maybe you have something specific in mind? Or just a few ideas that you just can’t find in stores? IntelligentDesign is pleased to offer Custom Furniture. We are partnered with the finest Interior Designers and Mill Workers available, who will bring your ideas to life. Don’t worry if you don’t know what you want, our Design Partners will consult with you in your home or office, and create a unique piece just for you.

Sometimes, you have limited space, or special design requirements. Maybe you just don’t want to see any TVs or equipment. A Motorized Lift may be the solution you need.

Hide projectors and screens away in the ceiling, or stash TVs in the foot board of your bed or in a console. We’ll take a look at your space, and come up with the perfect solution.

Call us today for a consultation: 305-652-1138

 

August 26th, 2011

Security & Surveillance

Protect what’s important to you – we make it easy.

We’ll integrate your current security system so that you can monitor and control it from anywhere. You can be alerted when your alarm is triggered, or even anytime a door or window is opened. Don’t have a monitored security system yet? We can help you select the right one for you.

Choose from a variety of Indoor & Outdoor cameras, as simple or sophisticated as your needs. We make it so you can keep an eye on things from anywhere: iPad, iPhone, PC, or any Smart Device.

Automated Locks are our hottest item right now, quickly becoming our biggest seller of all time.

We integrate your locks right into your system, allowing you serious security, and unparalleled convenience. A few great features:

  • Go Keyless: No more keys to find!
  • Secure entry for Cleaning Service, Maintenance, and more.
  • Automatic email alerts; know who entered and left, and when.
  • Its no longer necessary to give out the alarm code.
  • Doors will automatically lock after a preset amount of time; No more wondering!

We can install these for you in a matter of minutes. There’s a design to fit everyone’s taste.

Give us a call to learn more, or set up an appointment: 305-652-1138

May 20th, 2011

Hot Properties: Boulan South Beach

As you can imagine, we get to see some pretty hot properties in South Florida. But, even we were surprised by what we found when we stopped by this exclusive South Beach sanctuary. Boulan, located on Collins Ave & 21st Street, has great views of both the ocean & the city, as well as the newly renovated Collins Park across the street.

Walk to the Miami City Ballet, Public Library, & Bass Museum of Art for a taste of culture; or stroll to The Setai, STK, Nobu, Mr. Chow, or Solea at the W for a taste of anything else.

The residences themselves are lovely. Spacious, light filled, & Designer Ready, with universally beautiful & convenient touches such as:

  • Lagos Azule Portuguese Limestone Flooring
  • Energy Efficient Glass Sliding Doors & Windows
  • Designer Lighting
  • Washer & Dryer in Every Residence
  • Translucent Glass Pocket Doors
  • Oversized Balconies
  • Spa Inspired Baths (these must be seen!)

We can’t wait to create the ultimate lifestyle & entertainment systems at Boulan – completely automated, to be controlled at the touch of a button of course! These units really are ideal for the full Smart Home treatment.

Boulan features all of the conveniences of full service living, including Concierge, 24-hr Valet & Private Fitness Center.

All of the (anything but) common areas are designed with a restrained & tasteful touch, imparting the feel of a private oasis.

Our soothing, relaxing experience started in the understated lobby, continuing outside to the Meditation Garden & Courtyard, featuring lush tropical landscaping.

There is a beautiful rooftop, with a pool, jacuzzi, cabanas & barbecue area. They are currently installing a state of the art music and projection system for poolside entertainment under the stars.

There are fewer than 55 units, so you’ll want to move quickly to see these!

www.boulansouthbeach.com

305-538-7661

May 11th, 2011

Performance Spotlight: Smart Locks

Take a look at our newest superstar. Automated locks are not only our hottest item right now, they are quickly becoming our bestseller of all time.

We integrate them right into your home system, allowing you a serious sense of security, and unparalleled convenience. A few great features:

  • Go Keyless: No more keys to find!
  • Secure entry for housekeepers, babysitters, and more.
  • Your system emails you telling you who entered and left, and when.
  • No more giving out your alarm code.
  • Doors will automatically lock after a preset amount of time; No more wondering!

We can install these for you in a matter of minutes. There’s a design to fit everyone’s taste.

Give us a call to learn more, or set up an appointment 305-652-1138

www.id-fl.com

April 2nd, 2011

Bulletin: Japan’s Aftermath for Electronics

Though it compares in no way to the horrible devastation the people of Japan have had to endure recently, there are going to be consequences of the Japanese disaster in the world of electronics. I’m sure many of you are aware that quite a few of the electronics that Americans love and use daily are made or designed in Japan.

Inside the industry, we have been waiting to learn of the impact that will be felt here in the USA. This week, we’ve been informed that several of our vendors & distributors have had emergency meetings to discuss the reality.

Of course, the scale of the disaster, the horrific loss of life, & the damage to structures meant so much more to worry about than whether or not the Electronics Industry was going to be affected. Now that some time has passed, however, it is becoming very clear:

It appears the US is about to experience a pretty significant shortage in the electronic sector.

Obviously things could be much worse than this; we’re not talking about water, food, fuel, or oxygen. However, we take our responsibility to our clients & readers very seriously. If we hear news, so should you.

So, what does this mean? Well, expect to see the price of LED & LCD televisions going up. One of the largest plants in world that contributed to this technology was located in Northern Japan, and is now gone. Also be prepared to wait longer for these products. There will probably be a small resurgence of love for Plasma TVs, as they will be more readily available.

Semiconductors are another area that will be seeing serious repercussions. Without boring you, semiconductors are in just about all of your favorite electronics. Cell Phones, Automobiles, Remote Controls, even LED lighting will be effected.

Toshiba, Panasonic, Texas Instruments, and Sony are just a few of the manufacturers feeling a major impact. Not only are they coping with incredible business setbacks, they’re also dealing with the loss of life, & injuries of their employees.

Sony alone has suspended operations at 7 plants.

Also, many Japanese ports are completely shut down. Even if the products were available, they aren’t leaving Japan for a while.

Now is the time to purchase electronics. If you’ve been on the fence, go for it.

Please let us know your questions or concerns, we will do our best to get you answers.

Learn more here, here, and here.

www.id-fl.com

March 16th, 2011

Get Out!

The weather has finally taken a turn back to gorgeous! We’re all going to want to spend more time outside from here on, no more being cooped up in the house. Did you know you can enjoy all of the entertainment you have inside your home, outside in this lovely weather? Barbecues, pool parties, and intimate evenings at home will take on a completely different mood.

You can enjoy all the beauty of your backyard, without missing a thing. We offer a vast selection of outdoor Highoutdoor tvDefinition TVs, manufactured to be safe from weather, insects, and dirt. They can withstand temperatures up to 122 degrees! They’re available in a variety of sizes, at a price to fit any budget. Wouldn’t it be nice to lounge in the pool while watching your favorite show or sports match?

planter speakerYou can bring your music outdoors with a variety of speaker choices. Specially designed speakers that seem to be only flower planters or rocks can bring high quality sound outside. Or, we can hide them completely, so you see nothing at all. You can play music from all the same sources you use inside: iPod, MP3, CD, Pandora, Satellite Radio, & more. Whether you want soothing, relaxing sounds, or want to amp up a party, control is at your fingertips.

Give us a call, we’ll come out to see how we can enhance your South Florida Lifestyle:

305-652-1138

www.id-fl.com