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Technology with an Eye for Design
Technology and Design can Coexist
As a design-obsessed individual, I’ve been skeptical that technology belongs in a design plan....I don't have a computer monitor because it doesn’t look pretty on my desk. While some people (ahem, my husband) seem to be fine with 37 cords tangled together in a pile on the floor next to the sofa, the Gordian knot of wire truly causes some existential anxiety for many of us.
STILE Member Heather Toolin is the on-staff interior designer for technology integrators SYSTEMSEVEN and her job is to solve problems just like mine. As an interior designer with over 30 years of experience, Heather is used to having to marry form and function, and technology is just another version of the challenge. We chatted the other day and she gave me some insight on requests she’s getting from clients lately.
Technology Integrated with Décor
Gone are the days of hulking projectors looming over your head in the media room, or trip-hazard speakers on the floor. Today essential technology can disappear in to your décor, becoming evident only when you need it.
Look, no cords! This system also includes barely-visible speakers embedded in the wall; no tripping over giant towers in the middle of the night.
Where's the technology? This project included whole home audio and lighting control.
In this art gallery, the speakers were designed to disappear in to the ceiling, allowing the focus to be on the artwork.
Look, no cords! This system also includes barely-visible speakers embedded in the wall; no tripping over giant towers in the middle of the night.
Work + School-from-Home Spaces
Our homes have to serve many more functions these days, and everyone is trying to figure out how to fit it all in.
Not visible but critical for working from home: hosted voice phone services, reliable internet, cybersecurity protection, plus controlled lighting and audio.
Integrated home automation means you don't have to get up from your desk to check on the kids, change the thermostat or turn on the lights. Efficiency!
Fast internet is a must when everyone is online at the same time.
Not visible but critical for working from home: hosted voice phone services, reliable internet, cybersecurity protection, plus controlled lighting and audio.
Outdoor Entertaining
Texans have always loved to entertain outdoors and even more so now that we’re social-distancing. There are some amazing products out there that can turn your yard in to a resort-worthy oasis that will make you hardly miss the crowds at The Oasis.
Watching your favorite show alfresco, what a luxury! You don't even have to give up the surround sound. Lighting, motorized shades and security are all considered, but fade in to the background letting the landscape be the star.
Turn on the TV, fan, motorized shades, speakers, even the gas fireplace with one device.
A home always looks so much more welcoming with good lighting. Beyond aesthetics, good lighting (and a good security system) keep you and your family safe.
Watching your favorite show alfresco, what a luxury! You don't even have to give up the surround sound. Lighting, motorized shades and security are all considered, but fade in to the background letting the landscape be the star.
So if you’re ready to cut (or at least hide) the cord, give Heather a call. She can help you take advantage of the latest high-tech products while maintaining your Architectural Digest creds.
Heather Toolin, SYSTEMSEVEN
512-762-3918
