Barrett's Technology Solutions has revamped its Chicago-area showroom to better demonstrate the pairing of home automation with elegant design.
The 48-year-old A/V specialty dealer, system integrator and custom installer said its new Design Center was developed to inform as well as inspire, and shows how smart technology can complement décor without disrupting aesthetics.
Features of the fully integrated showroom include a state-of-the-art kitchen vignette with total home automation and lighting control; an "ultimate" media room, replete with 4K projector and 172-inch screen; a custom-built bar and video wall; an outdoor living area with fully equipped, all-weather technology options; remodeled listening rooms with the latest in high-performance audio; and a computer audio center featuring wireless audio, multi-room audio and streaming media.
"Our customers want to enjoy the benefits of technology without the feeling of obtrusion that wires, boxes and holes leave behind," said president Joe Barrett.
The business was founded by Barrett's late father James as Barrett Magnavox in 1966, and successively evolved with the industry as Barrett's Audio/Video, then Home Theater and now Technology Solutions.
The company is a member of the Home Technology Specialists of America (HTSA), where Joe has long held a seat on the board.
Barrett's will celebrate the Design Center's debut with a grand-opening event on Feb. 19. Representatives from top CE vendors will be on hand, including Audioquest, Bowers & Wilkins, Control4, Classé, Epson, Integra, Leon, Lutron, NAD, Revel, Rotel, Salamander, Savant, Seura, Sonus Faber and Sony, and raffle prizes will include Sonance's Launchport & Sleeve, Sonos' Play 3 and Bridge, and Audioquest's DragonFly.
"It was really important to us that we pull out all the stops," added Barrett. "Not only do we want our new Design Center to spark the imagination and creativity of our guests, but we also want to also take this opportunity to educate our community on the wealth of possibilities afforded by custom technology integration."
