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Matter Architects - Pink Palace Transformation

An historic Ponsonby Villa reimagined

A once-dilapidated pink villa on Ponsonby’s College Hill—viewed as both an icon and an eyesore—has been transformed by Matter Architects into a striking contemporary office space. Carefully preserving the villa’s historic charm while incorporating modern materials and technologies, Matter’s work earned recognition at the 2023 Auckland Architecture Awards.

As part of the transformation, Matter Architects partnered with Automation Associates to design and install advanced security and access control systems for the reimagined building, which now houses six commercial tenancies.

Access Control & Security

The new access control system enables seamless and secure entry into each tenancy. Tenants can access their spaces via PIN code touch keypads or key fobs, thanks to an integrated RFID reader. This system is directly connected to the alarm panel, automatically arming or disarming the tenancy upon entry.

A user-friendly software interface allows for easy management of access credentials—adding, removing, or editing users, codes and tracking entry logs. To enhance security, electronic lock strikes have been installed on designated doors, featuring a fixed exterior handle and an interior turn handle for straightforward entry and free egress.

A video intercom at the main entrance enhances visitor access, linking to touchscreens inside each tenancy. Tenants can see and speak with visitors before remotely unlocking the common area door. Additionally, an electronic magnet door-holder keeps the main entrance open during the day but automatically releases and closes it at night.

Alarm System Features

The alarm system includes:

  • Independent arming for specific areas
  • External sirens and signage to deter intruders
  • PIR motion detection for intrusion alerts
  • Internal sirens to notify occupants
  • Connection to alarm monitoring services
  • Flashing external strobe lights for easy identification by response teams

Pre-wiring has also been completed for a future intercom and access control system at a potential pedestrian gate.

Surveillance & Monitoring

To ensure 24/7 security, IP outdoor cameras provide surveillance of key areas, featuring IR illuminators for nighttime monitoring. Footage can be live-streamed or accessed via PC, laptop, or mobile app. Uninterrupted power supplies (UPS) guarantee short-term backup recording during power outages.

A wall-mounted swing rack keeps cabling neat, hardware organised and provides proper ventilation for cooling electronic equipment. This setup allows for easy future servicing and secure mounting of critical components.

Connectivity & AV Integration

Meeting spaces are equipped with HDMI input wall plates, cables, and adapters, enabling seamless wired connections for BYO devices such as laptops. A MATV system has also been installed to distribute UHF and satellite TV/FM signals across tenancies, following an RF signal test to optimise performance.

Ongoing Support

Automation Associates continues to support the building through its Helpdesk+ Remote Support platform. All systems are connected to the Helpdesk+ portal, allowing for proactive monitoring, real-time alerts, and remote issue resolution—often before tenants even notice a problem.

By blending heritage preservation with state-of-the-art security and technology, this transformation ensures the villa’s legacy endures while meeting the needs of modern commercial tenants.

Contact us today to talk about office technology solutions that are the perfect fit for your business requirements.  Also check out our AV Infrastructure as a Service offering – a managed service model, but specifically for AV.

With offices in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, our friendly consultants are here to help. Phone 09 377 3778 or email advice@aa.net.nz

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