When planning a build or a refurbishment project, at what point should you start thinking about technology integration? With many core structural elements like floorplans, plumbing, and electrics to consider, it can be easy to put off thinking about technology integration until towards the end of the project.
Viewing technology this way - as a finishing touch to a refurb, like interior design choices - doesn’t necessarily guarantee problems, but it does give you a lot less time to resolve any unforeseen challenges that may arise.
It pays to consider the purpose of the space and the role the right technologies can play in helping achieve that goal from the very early stages of the project plan.
Tech features might seem like a ‘nice-to-have’ add-on rather than a fundamental part of the project but a well-integrated tech set-up can transform the way your building is experienced by tenants and visitors.
Any good Project Brief Template will encourage you to think about technology integration from the earliest stages of planning your build. Here are some of the top reasons why that's a good idea.
Tech solutions such as mood lighting and feature lighting can create a really powerful impact in a space. They subtly set the tone and ambiance of a room whether it's a calming environment in a spa or high-end leisure centre changing room for example, or a more energetic experience in a gym studio.
It is possible to add these features at the end of a build, however, the most effective solutions are ones that have been built into the space. For example, lighting that has been built into the stairs, floor, or wall accentuates certain design elements and improves the experience of stepping into a space.
Digital signage can also be mounted retrospectively, but a far more sleek and high-end look can be achieved if it sits built into the walls. Similarly for video walls, you get a more professional look if the integration is planned into the build from the start.
Some technologies are integrated with aesthetics and atmosphere in mind, but others have very functional roles, such as Wi-Fi connectivity and networking solutions. Considering these practical requirements well ahead of installation allows more effective you to be better organised when positioning of data ports and easier long-term maintenance.
If you’ve ever been left frustrated by poor Wi-Fi connectivity in certain parts of a building, do the future tenants of your building a favour by putting as much early thought into the positioning of data ports and Wi-Fi technology as you do for the positioning of plug sockets.
Thinking proactively with tech solutions at an early stage of the build or refurb will also help to reduce costs overall.
Invisible features such as the Amina speakers we installed for Kinloch Lodge can be retrofitted to existing spaces but this is a more expensive route than incorporating them in the initial design and build.
Considering the sound required in a space and the overall desired effect ahead of time will reduce costs during installation as solutions such as false ceilings can be planned into the building work.
Hutchison Technologies has teams specialising in the integration of technologies ranging from lighting, audio, and digital signage, to access control and data solutions.
We have a track record of successful partnerships working directly with leading brands in the Health & Fitness, Corporate, Retail and Hospitality sectors, as well as partnering with architects and M&E consultants to help them deliver successfully for their own clients.
If you want to learn more about planning tech solutions in the early stages of your build or refurb project, speak to a member of our team today.