24 August 2021

ElectroMechanica is the supplier of choice for 16 On Bree’s electrical control and smart home automation solutions

Submitted by: CubicICE (PTY) Ltd
ElectroMechanica is the supplier of choice for 16 On Bree’s electrical control and smart home automation solutions

16 On Bree was designed for the new urban resident, seeking a luxuriously comfortable home that incorporates leisure, work and retail – all in one desirable precinct. With this in mind, the development team sought out smart home automation solutions that would enable each homeowner to control the lighting, temperature and security with a tap on their smartphone. They also sought out electrical control solutions that would make the building more energy efficient, lowering operating costs for the building owner and residents alike.

ElectroMechanica (“EM”) was the partner of choice for the development, providing assistance with the conceptual design of the building’s power distribution and home automation systems, before advising engineers on optimal product selection. “We proposed the installation of the robust German-engineered Hager products, which met their vision for a modern, smart technology-driven development,” says Ryan Whitelaw, EM Product Manager.

Managing the supply and installation of these solutions, as well as product order fulfilment, EM ensured project efficiency. They have also provided ongoing technical support to the development team.

The apartments and penthouse were fitted with the Coviva and Domovea wireless home automation systems respectively, from the Hager range. These use the KNX protocol, an internationally recognised communications standard for smart buildings, supported by 500 different product manufacturers worldwide. “This means that different brands and products can work together in one installation, which makes the Coviva and Domovea systems future proof. This allows the building or homeowner to upgrade or upscale their home automation system, at any time, with ease,” elaborates Whitelaw. Additionally,

Each of the 400 apartments was fitted with the Coviva system – a decentralised automation system that connects easily to a building’s conventional wiring structure, enabling residents to control their lighting, security and air conditioning remotely via a user-friendly smartphone app. It offers useful functionality, including scheduling sequences and voice activation; all are easily programmable. Users benefit from the convenience of the solution and it delivers electricity savings of up to 15%.

The building’s penthouse was fitted with the Domovea system, which is similar to Coviva but with added features and functionality. “It allows for advanced control, from music to CCTV cameras and temperature control to the Internet of Things,” explains Whitelaw. A Hager 3.5 inch touch screen has been installed in the living room of the penthouse so that its occupants can easily control all of its functions.

To meet the developer’s electrical control requirements, EM fitted each apartment with a Golf series flush-mounted distribution board enclosure, as well as switchgear protection devices. These feed into the building's control room and its main distribution board (also, a Hager low-voltage energy distribution product, ideal for apartment applications). “Hager’s distribution systems not only meet the highest standards of building safety, but combine maximum flexibility with energy efficiency, personal security and reduced maintenance,” states Whitelaw.

EM supplied the Hager products via ARB Electrical Wholesalers and collaborated with panel builders (George Switchboards), the contractor (Goddards Electrical), consulting engineer (Converge Consulting Engineers) and the developer (FWJK) to ensure all equipment met the required specifications.

16 On Bree is a mixed-use development – the second-tallest such development in Cape Town – completed in April this year. It offers residents exceptional views of mountains, sea and city, while also being located within walking distance of the CBD, various eateries, galleries and boutiques, as well as other attractions. It boasts an outdoor gym, swimming pool and recreation facilities, as well as a creche, electronic vehicle charging facilities and workspaces (hot desks and meeting rooms, fitted with high-speed fibre).  It’s one of a number of developments which is set to boost the value of property in the city, encouraging greater investment – in keeping with plans to reinvigorate the city’s economy.

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