The Project
A full transformation into a luxury smart home was needed for this Mews in the City of Westminster. KNX UK Member Avinu was commissioned to deliver an advanced automation system that would complement the property’s refined design.
Working in collaboration with fellow KNX UK members, My KNX Store, GIRA/Wandsworth and Zennio, Avinu developed a control strategy that seamlessly integrates the home’s historic character with modern technology. Leveraging the flexibility of KNX open technology, the system is fully adaptable, ensuring it can evolve to meet future needs while maintaining its elegant functionality.
How does this Project demonstrate the diversity/flexibility of KNX?
From the outset, it was essential that the smart technology strategy was developed hand in hand with the architectural and interior design, ensuring perfect alignment with the client’s contemporary lifestyle. The solution needed to deliver choice, adaptability, and sensitive design—offering discreet control of lighting, climate, security, shading, and entertainment without interrupting the clean aesthetic of the interiors.
With its modular, brand-agnostic approach, KNX was the perfect choice to provide unrivalled diversity, to ensure the creation of a truly bespoke system today while guaranteeing effortless upgrades and reconfiguration in the future as occupant needs evolve and new technologies emerge.
How does KNX add value and ease of use for building owners/occupiers
AVINU implemented a Gira KNX system to provide a fully integrated automation solution, seamlessly connecting lighting, shading, temperature regulation, and domestic hot water management. Zennio Flat55s were used for room temp controllers and HVAC control. Designed for more than convenience, the system enables precise control, intelligent automation, and real-time monitoring—enhancing comfort, optimising energy use, and reducing environmental impact.
Lighting Control
Lighting across the property is fully integrated , providing intelligent, responsive illumination that adapts seamlessly to daily life. Manual controls allow users to select pre-configured lighting settings for each space, while default brightness and tone in key areas ensure a consistent ambience. Occupancy sensors deliver automated presence-based control—activating lights when movement is detected and turning them off when the room is vacated—helping conserve energy and simplifying everyday living.
Scene Setting
The KNX system also supports customised lighting scenes tailored to the client’s lifestyle. With a single touch, multiple functions can be activated—such as “Day” and “Night” modes that co-ordinate lighting, shading, and temperature to create the perfect environment. Whether entertaining, relaxing, or transitioning between spaces, the ability to switch effortlessly between functional and atmospheric scenes adds a calm convenience to every space in the property.
Blind Automation
Motorised blinds are integrated within the KNX framework, offering both manual and automated control. Blinds can be programmed to adjust as part of scene settings or operated independently, ensuring flexible management of natural light and privacy while maintaining the interior’s clean aesthetic.
Temperature Control
Heating and cooling systems, including wet and electric underfloor heating, are unified through the KNX system. Individual room temperatures can be set to suit specific comfort requirements, supported by pre-set schedules that adjust automatically according to time of day or occupancy. Embedded sensors maintain consistent conditions across the home, while intelligent co-ordination of climate control helps optimise energy use without compromising comfort.
Home Cinema
A dedicated home cinema has been seamlessly integrated into the KNX ecosystem. With one button, the room transforms into an immersive viewing environment: blinds close, ambient lighting dims, and climate settings adjust for long-term comfort. By synchronising environmental controls with third-party AV systems, KNX ensures a high-performance cinema experience that is effortless, automated, and completely integrated.
How has this project resolved an identified need for the building user and/or developer ?
Seamless collaboration between multiple KNX suppliers provided flexibility and choice, while delivering clear installation and design benefits for the build team. Avinu was keen to highlight the support of GIRA/Wandsworth Electrical, My KNX Store and Zennio in achieving this outcome.
The use of KNX technology has transformed the property into a seamlessly integrated smart home that feels effortless to operate. By consolidating all building services under a unified interface, the system delivers precise control over lighting, shading, climate, and entertainment, ensuring technology enhances daily life without overwhelming the space. Minimalist switches and intuitive controls reduce clutter and preserve the clean aesthetic, aligning perfectly with the design specification.
This approach balances the home’s heritage with modern living, creating a residence that is both comfortable and efficient. KNX allows the occupiers to manage routine activities and special occasions with ease, while providing flexibility for future adaptation. In doing so, the system elevates functionality and design, demonstrating how smart technology can enhance both form and function in a character-rich, luxurious environment.
