Essential AV Considerations for Custom Home Builders: Planning from the Ground Up

As an AV company, we've seen firsthand how early planning can make or break a home's technology integration. Here's what custom home builders should consider from day one:

      1.  Budget 

If you are planning to deliver a custom home, then be certain that you allow the home owner to customize every detail of their home.  Many builders we work with establish a preliminary budget between $50k-$100k for all the AV items in a home.  We start there and adjust as necessary.  They invite us in early, and allow us a sit down meeting with the customer to discuss the possibilities of the AV items in the home, and allow us to build a plan to meet the customers needs and provide the customer with their dream home. 

     2.  Future-Proof Wiring

Even if clients aren't ready for full home automation, install conduits and run CAT6 cables to key locations. This foresight saves time and money down the line.

     3.  Dedicated AV Spaces

Plan for equipment rooms or closets. These spaces need proper ventilation and power to house AV gear.

     4.  Acoustics Matter

Consider room acoustics early. The shape of rooms, materials used, and even window placement can significantly impact sound quality.  We provide Sound Designs on Home Theaters to create the greatest in Surround Sound Systems for the ultimate listening experience.  

     5.  Lighting Control Integration

Plan for smart lighting from the start. This means considering switch locations, types of fixtures, and potential for automated shades.

     6.  Network Infrastructure

A robust network is the backbone of any smart home. Plan for multiple access points and a centralized network hub.

     7.  Outdoor Entertainment

Don't forget exterior spaces. Plan for outdoor speakers, TVs, and lighting control during the initial design phase.  Today custom homes are being well designed for an indoor to outdoor flow.  So keep this in mind when building decks, patios, pools, separate garages and recreational rooms or garages. 

      8.  Power Management

Include dedicated circuits for AV equipment to ensure clean power and prevent interference.  We design the AV flow to manage all power backups needed to maximize the equipment’s full purpose, and to mitigate issues in downtime.

      9.  Security Integration

Consider how security systems will integrate with other home technologies from the outset.

    10.  Scalability

Design with expansion in mind. What might clients want to add in 5-10 years?

    11.  User Interface Locations

Plan for where touch panels, remotes, or voice control devices will be most convenient.

 

By considering these elements early, custom home builders can create spaces that are truly ready for modern living.  It's not just about the technology—it's about seamlessly integrating it into the home's design and the home-owner's lifestyle.

Remember, it's always easier (and more cost-effective) to plan for these elements during the design phase than to retrofit later.  Let's build homes that are ready for the future, today.