Restoration: How PoE Technology is Revitalizing Historical Buildings

When the topic of the digital building comes up, it's easy to assume that advances in technology will only benefit new construction. However, in many cases, existing buildings, including historical structures, have much to gain from improved technology. In recent years, Superior Essex Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology has been an invaluable tool in restoration projects around the United States and beyond.

For example, the West Baden Springs Hotel in French Lick, Indiana is over 100 years old and features a domed atrium of epic proportions. In a 2017 restoration project undertaken alongside partner Platformatics, Superior Essex redefined possible for the lighting of the acclaimed atrium, preserving the structure's historical architecture while increasing operational safety, control and energy efficiency. Thanks to over 30,000 feet of Superior Essex PowerWise™ 1 Gigabit 4-pair Power-over-Ethernet (4PPoE) cabling, the hotel, which had previously required approximately 190,000 watts when fully lit, now requires just 4,000 watts and 408 LED lights to operate. In addition to cutting power usage by 90%, the restoration substantially cut the amount of heat generated by the lighting systems, increasing overall energy efficiency by 98.5%. Perhaps more impressive is that, due to the flexible nature of PoE technology, these results were accomplished without compromising the historical structure.

The benefits of Superior Essex PoE technology to building restoration don't end with efficiency and safety, especially when it comes to applications for projects in the hospitality industry. In an ongoing project, Superior Essex has partnered with Cisco, NuLeds and Sinclair Holdings LLC as the latter works to give an Art Deco-era office building in Fort Worth, Texas new life as a member of the Marriott Hotel Autograph Collection. The building will also utilize 4PPoE technology to connect Cisco Catalyst Digital Building Series Switches, utilizing data to allow for increased customization of lighting, environmental control and other systems in each of its 165 rooms. The increased control and efficiency that PoE technology brings to the project ensures that guests will experience an enhanced user experience that has been previously unattainable.

As PoE technology becomes increasingly acknowledged, it will continue to push what is possible for existing buildings in the realms of efficiency and customer experience alike. Superior Essex is committed to pioneering the technology that allows even historical structures to become Digital Buildings.

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