CHALLENGE:

Business executive Ed Zander’s home technology system needed updating. He and his wife Mona are active philanthropists involved in education, health, and social services. Their 13,000 square foot estate in a beautiful but remote area of Carmel Valley had its original wiring, electronics, and speakers from when they built the home in 2004. Ed wanted to update the system to include more current technology while maintaining the integrated features of the speakers, televisions, network, lighting, climate, cameras, and security system. In addition, the Zanders were building a vacation home in Palm Desert, and they wanted to have identical technology in that house.

SOLUTION:

Ed worked with managing partner Kevin Cook as his lead executive from the start. In Carmel Valley, the Amplified project team performed a detailed inspection of each room in the home to assess the scope of the job, then worked to develop a design and path forward that was agreeable for all parties. While technicians worked with the extant wiring and racks to upgrade and convert the systems, including conversion to a Crestron control platform, Amplified Lifestyles also upgraded the existing dedicated home theater, including all-new theater seating. A year and a half after the project completion, Ed and Kevin stay in touch and maintain their relationship.

Amplified Lifestyles liaised directly with the local home electronics firm in Palm Desert to duplicate the user interface and features of the Crestron Electronics control system. Once Ed introduced the two companies to each other, they collaborated, and he did not need to get further involved with the project. The Zanders now have the same user interface, command signals, remotes, and phone applications in Carmel Valley and Palm Desert. “It is a great feature for someone with multiple homes.,” Ed said. Speaking of multiple homes, when asked if he would use Amplified Lifestyles if he were building another residence, Ed responded, “Obviously, yes, we had a really good experience.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Developed a comprehensive system upgrade plan and budget that leveraged the existing infrastructure and components while introducing new equipment, features, and technology in areas that needed them
• Focused on providing a high-level experience throughout the project timeline
• Had the same point person from the start of the project to after installation
• Fostered a collaborative, not competitive relationship with another home electronics firm for the benefit of the Client
• Client now has the same Crestron Electronics System in two homes for ease of operation

CLIENT: Ed Zander

SCOPE: Update Crestron  Electronics System, New Media Room, Duplicate Crestron  Electronics System 

LOCATION: Carmel Valley, Palm Desert