Magnificent architectural wonder leverages automation to balance natural light and the woodland views of the Adirondacks in this year's Best Shading Application.
Nestled in the serene landscapes of North River, New York, this cozy abode resides deep within the heart of the Adirondacks. The remote, rugged, and discreetly positioned 5-bedroom dream home was designed by the homeowner and is a testament to sophisticated mountain cabin aesthetics with floor-to-ceiling windows inviting natural light and surrounding wilderness views.
The challenge
As an architect, the homeowner possessed a tasteful eye for design features and a home layout that would bring his vision to life and create a legacy home that could be passed down to future generations. The homeowner knew he wanted to incorporate automated lighting and shading, and after visiting a Crestron showroom, realized that smart home technology would perfectly complement this personally tailored living space.
The solution
Future Technologies was chosen as the technology integrator to bring in unobtrusive home solutions that would complement the rustic design while ensuring user experience remained paramount. Crestron Home® OS unveiled the potential of what was possible, folding all home technology control under one unified platform that would allow for future scalability.
The technology
This project differed from the homeowner’s other works, as it was a personal build for himself and his family to enjoy. The design was meticulously considered, and at the start, lighting control was a compelling automation element worth adding. As more of the power behind smart home control was revealed, the homeowner expanded beyond a full lighting control system for both indoors and out to include a fully integrated HVAC system with 10 zones, house-wide sound with two Surround Sound zones, Crestron roller shades, and a video surveillance system integrated within the Crestron Home platform.
This modern take on a remote and rugged cabin reveals a sophisticated home tucked in the mountains. The home’s exterior highlights modern, clean lines and large windows, while interior features smooth wood paneling and exposed wooden columns to pay homage to the surrounding environment. With such a well-thought-out design, bringing in technological elements that blend seamlessly yet help manage the large living space would be key. Crestron Home OS united all the home technology under one platform, offering multiple options to make entertainment and environmental controls a breeze.
Forty Horizon® keypads are spread out throughout the house, providing control points for the lighting, shading, HVAC, and media. Five Crestron portrait touch screens are positioned next to the keypads in each of the bedrooms, allowing all family members or guests to personalize their space according to their preferences and creating an environment tailored to individual tastes and needs.
For more on-the-move controls, the family can use the Crestron Home app or a TSR-310 remote to access their systems. The Crestron Home app extends control even further, displaying new capabilities daily within a carefully designed interface that enables them to orchestrate their smart home experience smoothly.
The breathtaking views of nature surrounding the house can be enjoyed thanks to the expansive windows at the back of the house. Crestron roller shades were thoughtfully placed, allowing for precise management of natural light and indoor temperature. These shades vanish into the timber frame structure of the home when not in use, maintaining the home’s aesthetic appeal. The quietness of the motor means that shades are never a disruptions, and the lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.
The audio experience is elevated to new heights with a carefully crafted Surround Sound system, immersing homeowners and guests in rich, cinematic soundscapes. In-ceiling speakers concealed in every bedroom maintain the home’s sleek and neat appearance. Within the media room, a swiveling TV enhances viewing from multiple angles, ensuring an immersive entertainment experience from every seat. The entire home is a prime example of how enhancing the living experience with technology solutions can balance elegant design with rock-solid reliability.
The results
The intuitive control of the Crestron Home platform simplifies the management of every aspect of the home, ensuring a seamless and convenient lifestyle. As the homeowner designed the residence, he greatly appreciated that the technology could make such an impact while remaining discreetly integrated.
A graduate of DeVry Institute of Technology, Doug has been in the Technology industry since 1976 and actively oversees Fearing’s daily operations. Along with his wife, Lois, and three others, Doug started Fearing’s in a 600 square-foot facility in Portage, Wisconsin. In the 25 years since, the company has grown to over 30 employees with offices in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Doug likes to say he’s a “TV Technician with a dream� going back to his history with the family’s original business-Fearing’s TV and Appliance.
Doug values time with family, watersports, hiking, snowshoeing and skiing. In addition to being a devoted member of his church, Doug serves as Board President for Kinship Mentoring of Columbia County, Board member of Schools for Haiti and Scripture Chair of the Gideons-Portage camp.
A graduate of MATC, Lois oversees Fearing’s daily book keeping along with various HR responsibilities.
Along with Doug, Lois is deeply connected to community outreach, serving as a Board member and Fundraising Committee Chairperson for Kinship Mentoring of Columbia County. She also serves on the Schools for Haiti Fundraising committee. In addition, Lois’ ongoing passion and commitment to provide care for the elderly comes from her 10-year history of working in a Reedsburg, Wisconsin Nursing home.
Lois enjoys singing, hiking, sunny days on the pontoon, and spending time with her 4 grandchildren.
Ehren drives Fearing’s technology by continually seeking out trends to enhance capabilities while supporting Sales, Engineering and Installation teams. Throughout his years with Fearing’s, Ehren’s talent and vision have joined forces to create a wide variety of projects and strategic solutions that exceed expectation.
Ehren loves music, family time, movies, nature, sustainability efforts and electric vehicles.
With 10 years with Fearing’s and over twice that long in the industry, Ben continues to lead, coordinate, and develop the Commercial AV team.
By consistently delivering an outstanding experience and outcome, Ben contributes to the Fearing’s legacy of long-lasting partnerships that truly make a difference. Whatever the Commercial AV need may be, Ben and team deliver at the highest level.
Ben is an avid fisherman and photographer. He enjoys coaching his sons and other youth.
Chris has been with Fearing’s for 20 years and in the industry for over 2 decades. As a Certified leader in Sales Acceleration and trained in EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating Systems), Chris successfully utilizes his skills to lead the Fearing’s Salesforce. Chris and team are motivated and driven to develop new client partnerships while continuing to reinforce loyal long-term relationships with ongoing Service excellence.
Married for 19 years with 3 children, Chris enjoys skiing, hiking, fishing, boating, hunting, camping and golf. He’s also been actively involved as a Youth Football and Softball coach for his family and others.
