Pala - Best Integrated Home, Level 3, winner, APAC 2024

Amid the sun-drenched landscape of the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, a home named Pala emerges with architectural brilliance and technological sophistication. Bridger Automation, known for their turn-key automated solutions, has breathed life into this modern marvel, ensuring that security and seamless integration are paramount. This home is not just another project; it’s a sanctuary for a family that includes two young boys, embodying security and comfort in an ever-evolving world where safety is increasingly important.

The journey began with a family that was both the client and the primary builder, Havendeen Projects. This dual role added layers of complexity and demanded unparalleled attention to detail. The clients, working closely with the esteemed architect Joe Snell of Studio Snell and the innovative interior designer Three Balls Red, envisioned a forever home that exuded modernity while embracing the lifestyle of its north-facing waterfront location. The challenge was clear: to create a sophisticated, user-friendly smart home that could be operated effortlessly, ensuring the family’s comfort and safety without overwhelming them with technology.

Understanding that the clients were not tech-savvy was pivotal. Bridger Automation recognised the necessity for an intuitive and reliable system, a cornerstone in the design brief. The integration of an RTI automation system became the heart of the home, seamlessly controlling lighting, fans, blinds, curtains, windows, doors, security, air conditioning, and an extensive audio-visual network across 11 zones. Each zone, whether independent or grouped, operated with a simplicity that belied the complex engineering behind it.

Security, a recurring theme throughout the project, was addressed with precision. As crime rates surged in the Gold Coast area, the need for a robust yet subtle security system became evident. Bridger Automation’s solution was comprehensive: strategically placed cameras, security keypads, motion sensors, and door reeds ensured that every corner of the property was monitored. The integration of an IP video intercom system provided control and notifications from any internet-enabled device, offering the family peace of mind at all times.

The aesthetic vision of Joe Snell was brought to life through the careful consideration of raw materials. The extensive use of off-form concrete ceilings, steel reinforcements, polished concrete floors, and expansive glass surfaces posed significant challenges. These elements, while contributing to the home's striking visual appeal, required innovative solutions for cabling and wireless connectivity. Bridger Automation’s choice of the Araknis architecture, known for its robust performance, ensured that Wi-Fi signals remained strong throughout the home, overcoming the physical barriers posed by the construction materials.

Comfort in the Pala home is enhanced by the meticulous Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) control system. The Gold Coast's climate, with its warm summers and cool winters, demanded a sophisticated solution. Bridger Automation’s integration of the Cool Master system, overlaying the Daikin HVAC system, provided seamless control over fifteen heating and cooling zones. The custom graphical user interface (GUI), accessible via tablet or phone, offered a stylish and reliable way to maintain the perfect indoor environment year-round.

Budget considerations, as with any project, were dynamic. Initial estimates evolved as the clients’ trust in Bridger Automation grew, allowing for the exploration of new technological paths that maximised the home's functionality and aesthetic appeal. This trust was not misplaced; the collaborative effort resulted in a home that is not only a secure haven but also a hub for entertainment and relaxation, reflecting the clients' lifestyle and values.