Will the biometric switch plate add a new dimension to home automation?

By Beverly Pereira

Photography: Paul Studio  

Read Time: 2 mins 

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Biometrics at home are shifting focus from security to convenience! Product designer Paul Sandip designs a sleek home automation switch plate with biometric access control for smart switches... 

If there’s one thing that sums up 21st-century living, it’s the evolution of home automation technology. Up until a few years ago, most considered remote control access to homes via the Internet an unnecessary luxury. Now, commercially viable with a range of applications, it is gradually becoming something of a necessity and a boon in our homes. 

In times, when gadgets are moving more towards voice controls, wi-fi and mobile compatibility, the biometric switch plate - the brainchild of Pranit Parekar and designed by international award-winning product designer Paul Sandip – appears more like a sleeker version of the TV remote. 

“The basic form factor of the switch plate is designed to match an 8-module gang box”, informs Paul.  “The major challenge”, he continues, “was to optimise the number of structural components to keep the final product pricing competitive without letting go of the elegant high-tech look and feel that the product deserved.”

Chrome white switch plate

Rose-gold switch plate

Diamond rim switch plate

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Paul’s design is characterised by consumer insight and strategy, with equal importance to prevailing colour and aesthetic trends and he pegs this product at the luxury home segment. 

The sleek switch plate proposes to be a convenience designed to restrict the use of electronic appliances especially in farmhouses and palatial homes, where house-help seemingly rule the roost. From controlling lights, fans and electronic appliances to automated curtains, and even doors, it offers users the personalised luxury of fingerprint recognition. Fully customisable as per the needs of the user, the plate is designed to store up to 300 unique fingerprints.

Paul Sandip

Claiming to be the world’s first such product, besides its regular version, the switch plate has a luxury version that comes with a custom-built metal frame studded with 780 precious stones to the user’s liking!

Going beyond the luxury home segment, the product could find an alternate market in high-end hospitality interiors that demand impeccable aesthetics; as well as medical, financial and other sectors, where the need for restricted use is a mandate.

Fact File:

Client: Pranit Parekar, Founder Skroman Global

Designer: Paul Sandip

Dimensions: 24cm x 8.5cm

Price & Availability: Custom-designed