Kaiteriteri House - Best Integrated Home, Level 1 finalist, APAC 2024

In the picturesque coastal town of Kaiteriteri Beach, Nelson, New Zealand, Kaiteriteri House emerges as a model of modern luxury where design and advanced technology meld to elevate the living experience. Orchestrated by integrator The Audiophile, in collaboration with Matz Architects and Whiteridge Construction, and supported by Bays Joinery, Nelson Alarms, and Tasman Satellite, this holiday home represents a pinnacle of integrated living environments.

The ambition was to transform this property into a sanctuary infused with state-of-the-art audio-visual systems, reliable Wi-Fi, and intuitive home automation. This vision extended beyond the mere installation of high-tech enhancements; it aimed to amplify the very essence of their lifestyle and entertainment experience, both indoors and outdoors. The Audiophile's expertise was instrumental in realising this sophisticated integration of luxury and functionality.

One can envision starting the day with the melodic sound of waves complemented by an invisible audio presence that permeates the outdoor and indoor spaces. This auditory experience is crafted through eight distinct zones that feature SpeakerCraft in-ceiling speakers and a SpeakerCraft in-wall subwoofer in the media room. The setup is powered by a Yamaha home theatre receiver, an RTI 8-zone pre-amplifier and 16-zone power amplifier, and a Yamaha streamer and radio tuner, ensuring an enveloping sound environment throughout the home.

Visual entertainment is not left behind, with a Blustream 4x4 matrix kit distributing Sky TV and other video sources across four different zones. This system ensures that high-definition and 4K content can be enjoyed from every corner of the house, enabling easy switching between different sources to suit any entertainment need.

The house also features seamless integration of streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, internet radio, Netflix, and Disney+, providing a wide range of content readily accessible across all devices. This is supported by a formidable network setup, consisting of a Luxul 26-port Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch and four Grandstream access points, which ensure robust high-speed internet access and consistent coverage throughout the property.

Home automation, central to the project's ethos, is designed to be both intuitive and user-friendly. Managed by an RTI control system featuring an XP6 processor with an unlimited licence, it allows the homeowner to remotely control all audio-visual equipment. Added scheduling capabilities automate the operation of lighting, shades, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems based on personal preferences, enhancing both convenience and security.

Light and shade control are intricately managed through the RTI system, with Lutron lighting setups creating programmable scenes and schedules that adjust the home’s atmosphere. HVAC control is facilitated through Sensibo, enabling remote activation to ensure the home is always welcoming.

Security is rigorously addressed with a comprehensive setup including a HikVision closed-circuit television (CCTV) system and a Paradox alarm system, complemented by a HikVision intercom that integrates seamlessly with the client’s iPhones. This robust security system is accessible remotely, ensuring peace of mind no matter the distance.

Kaiteriteri House exemplifies the seamless fusion of architectural finesse and technological advancement. Through the collaborative efforts of The Audiophile, Matz Architects, Whiteridge Construction, and their partners, the house not only serves as a luxurious retreat but also as a vivid illustration of how technology can be woven into the very fabric of modern architectural design.