Dezeen Magazine

Foster + Partners launches integrated building services system

British architecture firm Foster + Partners has designed a building services system that integrates lighting, security cameras, fire prevention tools and ventilation.

The Node system has been designed by the Norman Foster-led practice in collaboration with lighting company Artemide, and heating and ventilation company Price Industries.

Foster + Partners launches integrated building services system

It consists of a range of devices including lights, sprinklers, speakers and occupancy sensors. Cameras are also integrated into the system, which can be either mounted on or within a ceiling.

The devices are connected to a standardised wiring system that links them together, meaning that the building's services can be controlled from a single point.

Foster + Partners launches integrated building services system

Launched last month at the Light + Building trade fair in Frankfurt, the system was created as a result of Foster's belief that building services should be considered as part of the design process.

"Node emerged from a desire to create an integrated system for a building service that offers a single flexible solution, simplifying the specification, installation and operation while operating on a common platform that allows for future change," said Mike Holland, head of industrial design at Foster + Partners.

Each of the devices within the system is shaped like a circular node – all sharing the same materials and visual characteristics.

A range of lighting fixtures that will be manufactured by Artemide, named Hoy, have also been created specifically to work with the system.

Foster + Partners launches integrated building services system

With the aim of making it as versatile as possible, the designers opted for modular functionality – meaning zones can be added, or removed from the network without having to rewire.

"The versatility of Node embraces ideas of wellbeing and sustainability – maximising the efficiency of the building and giving it the ability to change over time," said Holland.

Foster + Partners launches integrated building services system

"Looking towards the future, we believe buildings will be far more responsive and data-driven, and Node is a step towards creating a dynamic and smart built environment," he continued.

While best known for its architecture, Foster + Partners has a long record of industrial design, including pieces like the Arc table for Molteni&C and the Dot lamp for Lumina.

The firm, which ranked at number nine on Dezeen Hot List 2017, recently designed a chair for people working in busy spaces, while practice founder Norman Foster is working with cycling brand Rapha to design a range of cross-country ski wear.

Images courtesy of Foster + Partners.