When a couple of longtime customers of Custom Audio Video called to ask if we could help with their outdoor entertainment setup, we couldn’t wait to get things moving. As we talked about what they wanted, there were a few requirements that presented some unique challenges:
For one, they wanted a big outdoor TV that was hidden when it wasn’t in use. They also wanted audio equipment that would supply an awesome party playlist, but not disrupt the overall look of their backyard, and of course, they wanted to be able to play in their new oasis at night (which means that they would also be needing some lighting).
After working together and discussing the right products for their needs, we ended up creating an outdoor entertainment setup that quickly became their at-home oasis.
Where oh where to hide a 65” TV…
At first, the most obvious place to install the TV was in front of the windows of the sunroom. However, this meant it would also block the view from the sunroom, so that didn’t work. We suggested recessing the TV into the roof structure.
Sound for every corner in the backyard
Music and TV audio was very important to our clients. While they wanted the entire outdoor space to be filled with sound, they didn’t want it to drown out conversations with friends and family.
They also wanted to maintain the look and feel of their beautifully landscaped yard, so big, in-your-face speakers weren’t going to work.
Blending in the speakers with the landscaping
With the customer’s needs in mind, we went with the Sonance Landscape System Series. They’re discreet and blend in with the environment. Two in-ground subwoofers were also installed to complement the satellites and provide the oomph most customers are looking for when listening to music.
In the covered sunroom, we installed two speakers up high near the roof line. This created a great sense of height to match the TV when watching their favorite football game.
Controlling the audio in different areas
Using Sonos for wireless audio, we created three listening “zones” so the homeowners could control the volume independently in each area. This way, the hubby could watch his favorite team on the field with his buddies, while the wife caught up with her friends by the pool. And when they’re ready to create the ultimate party experience, all speakers could be grouped together for even more powerful sound.
To make it easy to control all their new gear, we recommended a weather-resistant Universal Remote. With it, the homeowners could control all of the equipment located in the basement (aka “command center”) of the home.
Lights, camera, action!
The Lutron lighting system controls fixtures via a wireless remote, Lutron app, wall dimmers or keypads, and timed events. For the pantry and bathroom area of the outdoor oasis, we also installed occupancy sensors to automatically handle lighting control when someone enters or exits the space.
We also placed two low light security cameras by IC Real Time into the network for security. Since the cameras are part of the network, the clients can see what is happening anywhere in the oasis via their smartphones when they’re at home or away.
Protecting the investment
To prevent the setup from power surges and spikes, everything is protected by a Panamax BlueBOLT system. This also allows us to reboot components remotely when needed. Additionally, we used Transient Protection Design products to shield components from lightning strikes on the property, particularly via the speaker wires buried in the yard.
The ultimate outdoor entertainment setup
While this was a challenging project, it was a fun one to be involved with! Our client was thrilled with the results, and their outdoor oasis has quickly become the family’s new favorite gathering place.
Future Blogs featuring the products in this project:
Sonance Landscape System Series
Lutron Outdoor Lighting
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