Riviera Villas - Best Integrated Home Winner, Level 1, EMEA, 2024

Amidst a natural forest along a tranquil riverbank in Ukraine, this is masterpiece of modern architecture. Riviera Hills, designed by the acclaimed Artem Zverev from Yodezeen Architects, harmoniously blends cutting-edge technology with sophisticated design to offer a sanctuary for a family of four, embodying hope in challenging times.

The clients, seeking comfort and security amidst the extremes of a continental climate — scorching summers and frigid winters — required a sophisticated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The Bureau of System Integration rose to this challenge, integrating an automation system that met the family’s specific requirements for climate control and air quality, all while seamlessly matching the home’s luxurious modern aesthetic.

The Bureau of System Integration, renowned for its expertise, embarked on this endeavour with clear performance objectives. The comprehensive integration of lighting, shading, audio systems, home cinema, HVAC systems, security, and closed-circuit television (CCTV) was crucial to ensuring optimal functionality and user experience. Minimalist wall keypads were chosen to blend effortlessly with the home's clean lines and luxurious interior design, reflecting the modern architectural style.

A standout feature of the Riviera Villas is the seamless integration of a home cinema within the living room, incorporated into a feature wall alongside a fireplace. This innovative solution required meticulous planning and creativity, especially given the tight budget constraints. Traditional home cinema setups, with a front central channel speaker, were not feasible due to the stringent interior design requirements. Instead, Phase Technology CI150 speakers were seamlessly integrated into the feature wall, combining the front left, right, and centre channels into two cabinets. This unique speaker design delivers superb sound quality, creating the illusion of a central channel speaker and providing a sweeping soundstage akin to the finest multi-channel movie theatres.

The complexity of this project extended beyond just integrating a home cinema. The system had to maintain a reliable network and power supply to ensure uninterrupted operation, even during temporary power outages. The primary interface for system control was a secured iPhone app, as requested by the client, eliminating the need for additional display formats such as personal computers or iPads. This exclusive demand required innovative solutions to accommodate all available systems within the small interface of an iPhone app.

The Bureau of System Integration also faced the challenge of integrating existing equipment into the new system. The client’s Meridian DSP 5200 Piano Black loudspeakers were successfully incorporated into the multi-room system, allowing the family to stream their favourite music from digital sources seamlessly. Gas and air quality sensors, power supply management, and sewer canalisation control further ensure comprehensive automation and integration across various aspects of the home.

In a setting where uncertainty is ever-present, this home not only provides a place of refuge but also a demonstration of how seamlessly technology can be woven into the fabric of modern living spaces. With every detail meticulously planned and executed, the project showcases the remarkable capabilities of integrating advanced technology within a stunning architectural framework, promising comfort and luxury amidst the serene landscape of a natural forest.