Next-level living: Tillman Domotics on crafting unique interiors
Forget the days of flashy, over-the-top tech. Today’s luxury homes embrace AV solutions that quietly enhance how we live. Matt Symons of Tillman Domotics, tells us how AV integration executed well can elevate living, beautifully and intelligently, with simple controls.
“There was a time when people wanted to automate everything, from firing up the fireplace to running a bath. But it soon became clear that not everything needs an app. Layering technology thoughtfully into the home, rather than overwhelming it, became the new standard and has guided our work since forming in 2010.
Most of our work focuses on high-end properties, from luxury townhouses to large country estates. Many of these homes feature a multitude of areas – guest and staff accommodation, leisure areas and entertainment spaces such as cinemas. Getting the controls right for each space means understanding how the homeowners and others use and move through the property every day. For both new developments and refurbishments, this means working with the client and design team right from the start.
When we first started Tillman Domotics, this wasn’t so easy. We were often brought in after the contractor was already on board, which is simply too late. Getting involved early on allows us to collaborate closely with the design team and influence key elements that can significantly impact the final outcome. We take a very client-focused approach.
For instance, we’re currently working on a project with Studio Hooton at a house in a Kensington mews known for its period charm. Working alongside the architect and interior designer teams, we’ve been able to use our expertise to tailor features such as the light switches very much to the home aesthetic. In this case, older style dolly switches were used to integrate seamlessly with the AV control system.
Another example of collaboration has been digitising a Downton Abbey style service bell in a large Grade 1 listed building. Working closely with the client and engineers, we’ve designed a mechanism where triggering one of the original handles – retained for heritage reasons – sends a message to staff iPhones indicating they’re needed.
Older homes – particularly listed properties – can present unique challenges that demand a high level of design expertise. Often you can’t touch the ceiling, and concealing music systems or cable routes can be tricky. While some heritage purists might prefer candles, most understand the need to make homes suitable for modern living. It’s all about striking the right balance – respecting heritage while finding smart, discreet ways to integrate modern technology and conveniences while retaining the property’s character.
In historic properties, this often requires a different approach, especially when working with elements like timber panelling or architectural joinery. We may integrate systems directly into the panelling or design bespoke joinery to conceal the tech. Where it’s not possible to have a single, centralised AV room due to cable route challenges or structural constraints, we can decentralise the equipment across multiple zones.
Our mantra as a company is simplicity redefined but it could equally be anything is possible. We were once tasked with installing complicated systems for heating, cooling, leak detection, and general automation at a property in Gabon, West Africa. The owners rarely visited, and there were no direct routes in or out of Gabon, so everything had to be designed to be managed remotely. We worked hard to get it right – and we did. Where there’s a will, there’s usually a way. We also love a challenge!”
Matt’s advice to anyone considering AV systems:
- Bring in the AV expert early on
Whatever systems you’re integrating – cinema, lighting, window treatments – involving the AV expert early on will ensure the best design solution and end results.
- Take stock of your routines –
How do you use your home? Do you enjoy music? How do you relax or entertain? AV is personal and needs to be tailor made for seamless integration into your daily life.
- Focus spending on your most used areas
Integrating a bathroom TV no-one uses is an unnecessary expense. Conversely, kitting out a well-used kitchen with the right system will be money well spent.
- Keep tech simple and hidden from view
Hiding technology is just as important as making it easy to use. On one project, we worked with the design team to create custom joinery that hid a TV under the bed. At the touch of a button, a concealed panel opens, and the screen pops into view.
- Bring in the right expertise
Having the right people on board with the right skills makes all the difference to the final result.
Explore more of what makes Tillman Domotics exceptional at their website tillmandomotics.com and to see how we incorporate techology into our designs explore our latest projects here.
Image credits: Main Image: Studio Hooton | Switchplate Image: Tillman Domotics