control

most spaces have lighting in one system, audio in another, video somewhere else. they don't talk to each other. there are no scenes - just switches. we think that's a waste of potential. this is where our theatrical background matters. show control teaches timing, sequencing, precision - many systems behaving as one coherent thing. we've spent careers making that happen under pressure, live, in front of audiences. we bring that mindset to architectural environments. control integration is one of the core strengths of the practice - and a step beyond what most design studios can deliver.

instead of managing individual devices, we design around scenes - combinations of settings that create a defined mood. morning arrival - bright, energising light; upbeat audio; fresh scent. evening service - warm light, softer soundscape, richer fragrance. event mode - bold lighting, active video, elevated audio. scenes can shift instantly or evolve slowly - subtle transitions through the day or sharp changes for a specific moment.

complex systems don't need complex controls. we design interfaces that: make sense to non-technical users. offer simple day-to-day control, with depth when needed. work across devices - wall panels, tablets, mobile.

our systems interface with BMS platforms, booking systems and other operational tools. scenes can trigger automatically based on: time schedules occupancy and sensors calendar or event data external APIs

we're increasingly working with generative control: systems that respond to inputs in real time rather than recalling static presets. occupancy patterns, time of day, sensor data, even weather - all feeding into a living system. not every project needs this level of complexity, but when it fits, the results are compelling. we keep close to emerging tools because this is where the field is heading.

we don't sell hardware and we're not tied to manufacturers. we specify platforms because they suit the project, not because we need to hit a sales target. that independence is rare in this market - most "consultants" in this space are really integrators who happen to offer design services. the design comes second to the install contract. we have favourites that consistently perform well, but the brief always comes first. and we prefer modular systems where components can be swapped rather than entire racks replaced. the initial cost is higher, but the lifespan is longer.

we develop the control strategy, specify the hardware and software, supervise programming, and handle commissioning. when everything connects for the first time and scenes start to take shape, that's where the design decisions become real - and we're there. see control integration in action at The Hub and The Research Centre.

what is show control and systems integration? unifying lighting, video, sound and scent into one coherent system via scenes rather than separate switches - bringing a theatrical background of timing, sequencing and precision to architectural environments. what are "scenes" in a control system? combinations of settings that create a defined mood. morning arrival - bright, energising light, upbeat audio, fresh scent. evening service - warm light, softer soundscape, richer fragrance. event mode - bold lighting, active video, elevated audio. are the control interfaces easy for non-technical staff to use? yes. we design interfaces that make sense to non-technical users - simple day-to-day control with depth when needed, working across wall panels, tablets and mobile. can the system automate based on schedules or sensors? yes. our systems interface with BMS platforms, booking systems and other operational tools - scenes can trigger automatically from time schedules, occupancy and sensors, calendar or event data, and external APIs. are you independent from control system manufacturers? yes. we don't sell hardware and we're not tied to manufacturers. we specify platforms because they suit the project, and we prefer modular systems where components can be swapped rather than entire racks replaced. related disciplines: lighting · video · sound back to services the art of orchestration