When contacting Elite AV and Lighting (Elite AVL) for a project out in McKinney, Texas, the client in question wanted a “truly custom home.” Every detail, from the lighting panels to the networking setup all needed to fit within that idea of being unique to the home, and that included the showcase equipment rack Elite AVL ended up building to run everything.

Unique Home Visions Leads to Creative Display of Equipment Rack

“The client’s vision was for a unique home, featuring custom lighting and AV solutions centered around a showpiece AV rack. This rack was under construction in our shop for a year, undergoing multiple iterations to achieve the desired perfection,” explained Justin Dohman of Elite AVL.

The team also needed to collaborate with various trade partners to ensure everything was in tip top shape for the rack to be installed. After being moved to a more central location in the property, it was to truly become the beating heart of the entire smart home system.

“We held several planning meetings and on-site consultations to ensure everyone was on the same page. The compromises were resolved by transparently discussing potential limitations and finding creative solutions that met the client’s unique vision without sacrificing functionality.”

“Our commitment to precision ensured that even the lighting and networking panels were over-engineered and immaculately wire managed, with not a single wire out of place,” said Dohman.

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During that time, the rest of the team set about installing the lighting, networking, and AV systems that would ultimately be connected back to the rack to control everything.

“We worked closely with electricians to provide dedicated 240V plugs and coordinated with the HVAC company for proper ventilation for the space,” Dohman told CE Pro.

“This project exemplifies our dedication to delivering bespoke, high-quality solutions that exceed client expectations, solidifying our reputation as leaders in the industry.”

It’s also a terrific project that highlights how for every person that wants to keep every trace of technology hidden in the home, there’s always going to be another that wants to flaunt it as much as possible.

Systems & Equipment

• Custom Strong AV rack
• Control4 automation
• Araknis network switch
• JL Audio amplifiers
• AV Pro Edge audio receiver hub
• Anthem pre-amp

This project is part of our coverage for the 2024 CE Pro Home of the Year Awards. Presented annually at CEDIA Expo, the Home of the Year Awards represent the best of the best smart home innovations within the CEDIA channel. If you have a project you would like to submit to the Home of the Year Awards, consider following CE Pro if you aren’t already for when we announce the next submission round.

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