“Retro” Home Theater

Mills was approached by one of our long-time clients with the idea of converting some unfinished basement space into a home theater.  Specifically, they wanted to take design elements from a nearby historic theater while including state-of-the-art audio and video.  And, importantly, it needed to be a comfortable place to spend a few hours watching…

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Is Cutting the Cord Right for You?

“Cutting the cord” is a euphemism for getting rid of cable or satellite TV service and replacing it with streaming TV services.  It’s an appealing option, considering the expense of cable/satellite TV services.  With all the available streaming services being offered, why not, right? But, the decision to cut the cord can be more complicated…

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High Tech Meets High Design

This stunning penthouse in Chicago is proof that technology can be incorporated into your space without interfering with beautiful interior design. In the Bar area, guests are treated to exquisite views of the city while surrounded with warm wood paneling. Hidden inside one of these panels is a 65” television. When the TV turns on,…

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The Amazing Roles Of Lighting In Your Home And The Advantages Of Good Lighting Design

The Role of Lighting Lighting plays a critical and multifaceted role in any project and influences aesthetics, functionality, safety, sustainability, and the overall experience of a space. Its role goes beyond mere illumination and encompasses a wide range of design, practical, and artistic considerations. Proper lighting can help us accomplish more during the day, relax…

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Tech Upgrades – 3 Quick & Easy Upgrades to do Now

Think all technology updates are involved and complicated?  Think again.  Here are our top three picks for tech upgrades that are quick and easy: Tech Upgrade #1: LED Lighting Updating your existing recessed, linear and/or outdoor lighting may be easier than you think.  Many homeowners are moving to LED because these are more energy efficient, easier…

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Hiding Technology in Your Home

Technology is an essential part of our daily lives. But let’s face it, electronics aren’t always aesthetically pleasing and can quickly add clutter to a sleek and sophisticated design. Whether you’re renovating an existing space or building a new one, Mills helps clients and their design teams lessen the visual impact of technology components –…

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What is Video Distribution?

We briefly touched on video distribution in our Control System vs Multiple Apps post a couple of weeks ago. Distributed video allows a single video source, like a cable box, AppleTV, or a Blu-ray player, to be shared between multiple TVs that are connected to a video switch. Video Distribution – Some Advantages This provides…

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Should My Smart Home Use a Control System or Multiple Apps?

“Can we use apps to control our system, or do we need an integrated control system?” This question is one we are often asked by our clients and building partners. There’s no right or wrong answer. It really depends upon the goals of the homeowners, as well as the size and complexity of your overall…

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Lighting Control – Top Reasons Why Every Home Should It

Many home technologies boost convenience and safety. Others reduce energy costs. And some improve aesthetics. Lighting control is one of the few that can do all of this and more. Many homeowners who are building luxury homes purchase lighting control systems simply because they feel it is an expected feature for resale. What they fail…

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