Menlo Integrated Home | Best Integrated Home, Winner

The story of this project began over four years ago when SmartTouchUSA first met the clients — a remarkable couple with a young child. Their vision was clear: a home where technology would not only function seamlessly but also enhance their living experience without overshadowing the natural beauty of their surroundings. From the outset, the couple's enthusiasm and flexibility allowed the integrator to explore innovative solutions, transforming challenges into opportunities.

Working closely with the clients, SmartTouchUSA ensured that every detail aligned with their aspirations. The outdoor spaces, featuring an integrated audio system, blend harmoniously with the lush landscaping, pool, and cabana area, creating a serene and inviting environment. The objective was to ensure that technology, while omnipresent, remained unobtrusive—a goal achieved with finesse and precision.

However, the journey was not without its hurdles. The project was plagued by a less-than-stellar performance from the initial builder, extending the timeline significantly. Despite these setbacks, SmartTouchUSA's commitment never wavered. Their assurance to the clients was steadfast, navigating through the builder's inexperience with poise and determination. Even as the world grappled with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, SmartTouchUSA's adaptability shone through. Supply chain disruptions forced a pivot from Crestron to Lutron for lighting and shading products, a transition managed seamlessly to maintain the project's momentum.

The Menlo Integrated Home is a symphony of top-tier products and expert craftsmanship. SmartTouchUSA collaborated with industry leaders like JBL, Officina Acoustica, CINEAK, and Hill RESI to deliver unparalleled audio and visual experiences. The theater, a focal point of the home, features an engineered wall system from Officina Acustica, ensuring impeccable acoustics and an immersive cinematic experience. This aspect of the project particularly highlights SmartTouchUSA's ability to innovate under constraints, as they had to navigate budget limitations imposed by the builder.

A key aspect of the home's technology is its intuitive control system. Voice control, integrated into the Crestron Home platform, offers the clients simplicity and ease of use. By focusing on lighting, shading, and whole-house commands, SmartTouchUSA avoided overwhelming the clients, particularly balancing the tech-savvy nature of the husband with the more conservative approach of the wife. This careful consideration ensured that the system was not only functional but also user-friendly.

The project's success is a testament to the collaborative spirit between the clients and SmartTouchUSA. Their relationship was built on mutual respect and a shared vision, allowing for flexibility and upgrades as the project evolved. The clients' decision to enhance certain subsystems midway through the project underscored their commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. This adaptability, combined with SmartTouchUSA's expertise, resulted in a home that exceeded all expectations.

One of the most poignant moments in the project was the final demonstration of the system. The husband, often away due to travel, had not experienced the installation process firsthand. His reaction to the completed system, particularly the movie theater and outdoor speakers, was overwhelmingly positive, culminating in a tearful expression of gratitude. It was a powerful reminder of the impact of their work—a validation of the long hours and dedication poured into the project.