THE BRIEF
A multi-residential technology project combining structured cabling, dependable apartment networks, Lutron integration and refined Bang & Olufsen entertainment systems at the Aurum development.
Mirror Edge Networks worked on the project from June to December 2018, supporting the delivery of repeatable technology infrastructure across the development and completing premium audiovisual installations in selected apartments.
The work required more than installing individual products. Each apartment needed a properly planned technical foundation, consistent network architecture and accessible equipment locations, while the finished Bang & Olufsen systems had to sit naturally within the interiors.
The brief brought together project planning, infrastructure installation, networking, lighting-control coordination and final audiovisual fit-off. Every part of the system needed to be documented and repeatable, yet flexible enough to suit the layout and requirements of each residence.
Planning for a Multi-Residential Development
Technology in a development of this scale has to be considered early. Cable routes, equipment locations, power requirements, network coverage and interfaces with other contractors all affect the finished result.
Mirror Edge Networks helped translate the audiovisual and networking requirements into practical on-site infrastructure. This meant coordinating cabling and rack locations before finishes were complete, checking that services arrived at the correct positions and maintaining a consistent installation standard across multiple apartments.
Careful planning also made the final commissioning process more predictable. When televisions, loudspeakers, network hardware and control interfaces were ready to be installed, the required pathways and connection points were already in place.
Structured Cabling as the Foundation
The quality of an integrated apartment begins with the cabling that disappears behind its walls. Structured network and audiovisual cabling was installed to support everyday connectivity, entertainment and the interfaces required by the wider control system.
Cables were routed back to dedicated equipment locations and terminated in wall-mounted swing-frame racks or pull-and-turn equipment racks, depending on the apartment layout. These rack formats kept the technology contained while still allowing technicians to access the rear of the equipment for commissioning, maintenance and future upgrades.
This serviceability matters in a finished luxury apartment, where unnecessary disruption should be avoided. A planned rack gives every connection a known home and provides a far stronger basis for long-term support than equipment distributed across cupboards and rooms.
Apartment Network and Wi-Fi Infrastructure
Each apartment received an Araknis network platform comprising a router, network switch and wireless access point. Together, these components created a dedicated home network and Wi-Fi system for the residence.
The network was not treated as a standalone convenience. It formed the operational backbone for connected televisions, music services, control equipment and the growing number of personal devices expected in a modern apartment.
Using a consistent network architecture across the development simplified installation and support while allowing each residence to operate independently. Equipment could be clearly identified, tested and commissioned apartment by apartment.
Bang & Olufsen Television and Audio Installation
Apartments 701 and 801 received premium Bang & Olufsen installations featuring BeoVision Avant televisions and BeoLab 18 loudspeakers.
The slender BeoLab 18 speakers provided a sculptural audio solution suited to the architecture and finishes of the apartments. Their placement was considered alongside the televisions, furniture and circulation areas so that the system felt intentional rather than added after the interior was complete.
The BeoVision Avant installations required accurate positioning, secure mounting, concealed signal paths and careful final setup. The visible result is simple, but achieving that simplicity depends on the infrastructure and coordination completed earlier in the project.
Lutron and Interior Integration
The apartments also included Lutron lighting control. Mirror Edge Networks coordinated the relevant technology interfaces so that the audiovisual installation could work comfortably within the wider electrical and lighting-control environment.
For the resident, the goal is not to see separate technical systems competing for attention. Lighting, connectivity and entertainment should support the space quietly, with controls and equipment positioned where they make sense.
Where a client requires a broader control strategy, Mirror Edge Networks can develop this through a dedicated home-automation consultation.
Power Protection and Equipment Reliability
Furman power-conditioning products were installed where required to support sensitive audiovisual equipment. Power protection is an important part of a considered system, particularly when premium televisions, active loudspeakers, network hardware and control devices share the same technical environment.
The objective is not simply to add equipment, but to create a stable operating platform with appropriate power, ventilation, cable management and access for support.
Coordinating Multiple Trades
A development project depends on sequencing. Infrastructure must be installed before walls close, equipment locations must align with cabinetry and interior finishes, and final products can only be fitted once the surrounding work is sufficiently complete.
Mirror Edge Networks worked through these phases across several months, coordinating the transition from first-fix cabling to network commissioning and final Bang & Olufsen installation. This continuity reduced the risk of important technical details being lost between planning and handover.
What the Project Included
- Project planning and technology coordination from infrastructure to final fit-off
- Structured network and audiovisual cabling across the development
- Dedicated equipment racks selected to suit individual apartment layouts
- Araknis routers, switches and wireless access points in the apartments
- Lutron lighting-control coordination
- Bang & Olufsen BeoVision Avant television installation
- Bang & Olufsen BeoLab 18 loudspeaker installation in apartments 701 and 801
- Furman power conditioning where required
- Testing, commissioning and handover of the completed systems
The Result
The Aurum project demonstrates the value of treating technology as part of the building rather than a collection of products added at the end. Structured cabling, consistent networking and accessible equipment locations created a dependable foundation, while the Bang & Olufsen installations provided the refined visible finish.
It also shows Mirror Edge Networks’ ability to work across the full project lifecycle—from early infrastructure and contractor coordination to detailed product installation and final commissioning—within a multi-residential environment.
Planning technology for a residence or development?
Mirror Edge Networks designs and delivers structured cabling, networks, automation and premium audiovisual systems for private homes, apartments and multi-residential developments in Cape Town. Request a project consultation.
