Transforming a Building’s Connectivity and Security in Exeter: A Comprehensive Managed Internet and Technology Solution

When it comes to modern office spaces, flexibility and technology integration are key to meeting the demands of both businesses and their tenants for service office provision. One such project in the heart of Exeter involved the renovation of an office building that needed a robust, adaptable solution to support the business operations of both the owner and the building’s tenants. The challenge was clear: a flexible managed internet solution and enhanced access control to ensure seamless functionality and security 24/7. In addition, we were tasked with upgrading the building’s social and meeting spaces with state-of-the-art audio and visual systems. Let’s take a closer look at how we transformed this office building into a modern, tech-savvy environment, complete with fast internet, secure access control, and dynamic AV solutions.

Modern Internet Connectivity for Every Tenant

The first challenge we encountered was the building’s existing network infrastructure. Although the property had CAT5 structured cabling installed throughout, it had reached the end of its life expectancy. Originally installed in the early 1990s, this legacy system was unable to support modern internet speeds, such as the 1Gbps required for optimal business performance today. Recognizing the need for an upgrade, we installed a high-speed, 1Gbps leased line capable of serving the needs of every tenant in the building. With the internet infrastructure in place, we moved to the next phase—delivering a flexible and scalable internet access solution. To support this, we installed to install a high-performance fibre backbone and edge rack on each floor of the building. We also upgraded the building’s internal cabling to CAT6, which provides the support required for high-speed data transfer.

To ensure tenants could enjoy fast and reliable internet access, we installed Ruckus Wireless Access Points (APs) throughout the building, providing seamless Wi-Fi connectivity across all floors. Using a Netgate PFSense firewall, we were able to offer tenants different internet service options. For those who needed a fully managed wireless network throughout the building, we provided a secure, consistent connection. For tenants who preferred more control, we offered an “uplink” option, where they could install their own routers and firewalls. The flexibility of this model allowed tenants to use their own services, such as site-to-site VPNs, while still benefiting from the shared infrastructure. Additionally, we provided speed-limited public Wi-Fi across shared spaces like hallways, kitchens, and social zones, ensuring everyone had easy access to the internet in these communal areas.

Securing the Building with Advanced Access Control

 Security was another major focus of this project. The client required a sophisticated, keyless access control system to provide secure building access for tenants, all while giving the landlord the ability to monitor entry in real-time, 24/7. As part of this solution, we decided to extend the existing Paxton NET2 system, which was already in place on some doors, to cover the entire site. The beauty of the Paxton NET2 system is that it eliminates the need for physical keys. Instead, access is granted through an electronic token, allowing the landlord to control who enters each door through a single terminal. Whether tenants are working late or arriving early, the landlord always has visibility and control over building entry. Because of the building’s unique layout, some tenants occupied entire floors, which meant we had to ensure access control was applied to the lifts as well. To address this, we integrated Paxton’s I/O Board with an additional Net2 Reader into the lift system, allowing only authorized users to access specific floors. With this setup, unless the user presented an authorized token, the lift wouldn’t go to the restricted floors. In addition to access control, we enhanced building security by installing a high-quality HIKVISION IP CCTV system throughout the public areas, ensuring that every movement within the building was recorded for safety and security purposes. As part of this installation, we also fitted a CCTV camera inside the lift, providing full surveillance coverage inside the building.

Elevating the Office Experience with SONOS Audio and AV Systems

 A vital part of any modern office space is creating a productive and enjoyable environment for tenants. In one of the building’s social spaces, we installed a SONOS sound system, providing tenants with a simple and enjoyable way to choose and play music. This was achieved through a sleek, wall-mounted iPad interface that allowed users to control the audio system with ease. The space was equipped with four SONOS Play 1 units, offering multiple options for audio control. Each speaker could be set to a different volume or music, allowing tenants to tailor the experience to their needs. Whether tenants are hosting informal meetings, relaxing during lunch breaks, or holding a social event, this flexible audio system creates the perfect atmosphere for every occasion.

Additionally, we focused on enhancing the building’s conference suite with a cutting-edge AV system. The existing 4K projector was integrated into the solution, allowing for both wired and wireless connectivity. Tenants could easily plug in their laptops using HDMI or VGA, but we also provided wireless presentation options via Apple TV and Google Chromecast. This feature gave users on any device—whether it’s Windows, MacOS, Android, or iOS—the ability to wirelessly cast their screens to the projector, offering a level of flexibility that’s perfect for a modern conference room. This setup ensures that anyone can effortlessly join a presentation, regardless of their device or platform.

Conclusion

 This project in Exeter perfectly highlights how the combination of flexible internet solutions, robust security, and modern AV systems can create an optimal environment for businesses and tenants alike. From the ground up, we delivered a tailored solution that met the client’s specific needs—ensuring fast and reliable internet, seamless access control, and dynamic audio and visual capabilities. Whether it’s a business presentation or a social gathering, this building now offers a modern, connected space where everyone can thrive. By upgrading the building’s infrastructure and enhancing its technology, we helped transform this office space into a future-ready environment that caters to the needs of businesses today while remaining flexible for tenants in the years to come. With a combination of high-speed internet, intuitive access control, and advanced AV systems, this Exeter office building has truly set the bar for what a modern office space can be.

Key Takeaways:

• High-speed 1Gbps leased line ensures fast and reliable internet for all tenants.
• Flexible internet options, including managed Wi-Fi and uplink solutions, provide customization for every tenant.
• Keyless access control system allows the landlord to monitor entry 24/7, while enhancing security throughout the building.
• SONOS audio system and AV solutions create flexible, user-friendly spaces for both social and professional use.

In the end, it’s all about creating an environment that meets the needs of modern businesses and enhances the overall office experience. With the right combination of technology, flexibility, and security, any office building can be transformed into a top-tier workspace for tenants and businesses alike.

Update 2025 – as our client has expanded their business and now providing more serviced office centres, we’ve continued the same model throughout their different business centres.