Integrating AV Technology Like an Interior Designer

For some homeowners, every detail in their home has to be just right. Perhaps that becomes even more critical when planning the dream home they've always desired, the one where nothing is a compromise. If you're one of those people designing a new home, whether it's totally new or a down-to-the-studs remodel, your technology must also be well integrated. That's where an "art TV” comes in. What is it? It’s a TV, like the Samsung Frame, which does its best to look like a piece of art when turned off instead of a lifeless black slab on the wall. And while the TV is a wonder of technology hiding in plain sight, some planning is needed to achieve the best results. We explain below. 

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The Seamless Fit

Samsung’s Frame TV has a slim design and special mounting characteristics to make it hang as close to your wall as possible, like a framed piece of art. While it’s a marvel of design and packaging, it still requires connections to other components, such as media players like an Apple TV, a cable box, or a Blu-ray player. Reliable performance often demands network connections that go beyond standard Wi-Fi. This is where the expertise of a technology integrator becomes invaluable. Engaging with them early in the build process ensures that the wall and surrounding area are constructed to accommodate all the necessary wiring connections. This foresight guarantees that additional equipment can be neatly tucked away behind the TV, ensuring a flush and seamless appearance. You can have a full-fledged media setup where everything is hidden, and all you see is the “art TV.” 

What About Sound?

The beautiful picture needs to have the aural side to match. Super thin TVs like Samsung Frames are not known for their sound quality. But you don’t have to compromise here, either. Your TV can be paired with speakers like the Sonance Invisible Series. These aren’t your average architectural speakers. Now in their second generation, they incorporate unique design tricks to extract maximum sound quality from their shallow depth. Most importantly, they can be finished over with the same materials as your walls for sound that truly appears to emanate from your walls. However, much like the TV as art, these speakers require meticulous planning. The wiring needs to be in place before the drywall is installed, and coordination with drywall and finishing teams is crucial to achieving that hidden effect for maximum aesthetic appeal.

Managing Your System

You don’t need to stop at art TVs and invisible speakers. For the ultimate in integration, add a home automation system to manage your AV setup. A smart home system like Control4 can offer multiple ways to control your AV, from smart AV remotes to touchscreen interfaces, apps, and voice control. And because you were so smart at planning ahead for all of this, it's totally hidden away and invisible. 

Integrating technology that doesn’t interfere with design is easy when you plan early. If the idea of art TVs and invisible speakers appeals to your design sense, we’d love to work with you. To learn more, contact Show & Tell AV Solutions today!