What if, as an installer, you could turn your own private home into a modern showroom? That idea sparked the imagination of Pieter Degrande and his wife as they began planning their new-build project. They envisioned welcoming clients into their home to demonstrate the latest smart technologies. With the support of Cebeo, Modular, and Qbus, this concept became a reality.
Pieter Degrande Transforms His Private Home into a Contemporary Showroom
Pieter Degrande BV has been specializing for years in electrical installations, air conditioning, smart home systems, ventilation, and solar panels. The company primarily serves the residential market. “This means I’m constantly in contact with modern solutions that are benchmarks in both design and functionality,” Pieter explains. “So it felt only natural to integrate these same technologies into our new home design.”
Technical Realisation
Since only the front façade of the house was preserved, it can rightfully be called a new-build. As a regular customer of Cebeo, Pieter turned to them for technical support.
“We opted for a full Qbus home automation system, DALI-controlled dimming, HVAC control, energy and level monitoring, and a high-performance camera and alarm system, among other features. While our primary goal was to enhance our own comfort, we also wanted to showcase current technologies to potential clients.” Since the home’s completion in September 2021, Pieter regularly welcomes clients into his home. “These are mostly people open to technological innovation and advanced solutions, and who are willing to invest accordingly. We often notice that after a visit, they start valuing lighting much more — even though it’s usually a decision left until the end of a project. Seeing the possibilities in real life lowers the barrier to going all in themselves.”
For James Van den Bossche, external lighting consultant at Cebeo, the project at Pieter Degrande’s home was a flagship realisation.
“We had worked with Pieter before on lighting and electrical installations. To give him the best possible insight into the options, we visited the Modular Lighting Instruments showroom in Roeselare together. That visit inspired him to take things a step further in terms of creative colour combinations and unique fixtures — fully in line with the style of the home.”
I’ve always had a passion for technology
Pieter smiles: “I’ve always had a passion for gadgets and high-tech innovations, and it’s great to finally enjoy them every day. The kids also love experimenting with different lighting atmospheres.”
Jonas De Waepenaere, project manager at Modular Lighting Instruments, joined in during the final phase to help resolve a technical challenge related to the office lighting setup.
In the meantime, Pieter and his family have comfortably settled into their new home. “It’s incredibly satisfying to live in a space that not only meets our comfort needs but also inspires others to discover what smart living can truly be.”
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