Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Allen. Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your work at AL DI LÀ LUX?
Allen Akinbobola: My pleasure. I’m Allen Akinbobola, an Audiophile, System Designer, and System Integrator. I own a custom integration company called AL DI LÀ LUX. We specialize in enhancing residential and commercial projects by integrating various electronic systems for centralized control and improved energy efficiency. Our services include luxury home and commercial automation, integrating tunable lights, motorized shades and draperies, AV systems, HVAC systems, security systems, and smart technologies. Essentially, we elevate spaces with elegance, convenience, and peace of mind. We’re proud to be authorized dealers of the oldest and best brands across every service we offer.
Interviewer: What is AI, and how do you currently use AI at AL DI LÀ LUX?
Allen Akinbobola: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science focused on creating systems and machines capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks include natural language understanding, pattern recognition, decision-making, and learning from experience. At AL DI LÀ LUX, we leverage AI in two ways. First, we use it internally to simplify our business operations and improve customer experiences. Second, we integrate AI-powered solutions into our clients’ projects to handle mundane tasks, providing them with peace of mind and elevated convenience. The goal is to enhance productivity so our clients can focus on what matters most. As I often say, we all have 24 hours in a day—the difference between a Jeff Bezos and someone else is the productivity level they achieve. AI, in this sense, becomes a powerful enabler.
Interviewer: What’s required to make all this possible?
Allen Akinbobola: AI and technology aren’t magic; they require a strong foundation, just like a building. That foundation is networking infrastructure, which enables connectivity and communication between devices and systems. This can be either wired or wireless, and each has its pros and cons.
Wireless networking is convenient but faces limitations such as interference from physical objects like walls, weather conditions, signal degradation over distance, and network congestion. Wired networking offers reliability but requires regular updates to keep up with bandwidth, speed, and distance demands. Limitations include installation challenges, physical wear and tear, and costs associated with upgrading cables and devices. At AL DI LÀ LUX, we often use a hybrid system to balance these factors, ensuring the infrastructure is robust enough to support advanced technologies.
Interviewer: How is artificial intelligence reshaping real estate development in Nigeria, from site selection and design to project management and customer engagement?
Allen Akinbobola: AI is revolutionizing real estate development by improving efficiency and decision-making across all stages. At AL DI LÀ LUX, we leverage AI primarily in design, planning, project management, and post-construction management. Our centralized building management systems integrate lighting controls, motorized shades, AV distribution, security and surveillance, HVAC systems, and more.
These systems optimize energy use, predict equipment failures, schedule maintenance to prevent downtime, and address concerns promptly. For example, in a building or across multiple buildings, AI ensures seamless operations, enhances security, and streamlines communication channels. This level of integration not only elevates the functionality of spaces but also drives sustainability and cost efficiency.
Interviewer: With the rise of smart homes and IoT globally, how is your firm incorporating these innovations into residential and commercial projects? Are Nigerian buyers receptive to smart property features?
Allen Akinbobola: Absolutely. We represent some of the oldest and most trusted brands in our industry. Many of the products we use are professional-grade and not directly available to consumers. Our expertise lies in designing, installing, programming, and commissioning these systems to work seamlessly together. This understanding sets us apart.
In Nigeria, we’re seeing increasing receptiveness to smart property features. It’s worth noting that smart home technology isn’t new—I grew up with a complete AV system at home, though back then, finding someone to install or repair such systems was challenging. Today, the knowledge and resources to deliver these solutions have grown significantly, and Nigerian buyers appreciate the convenience, elegance, and long-term value these systems bring.
Interviewer: In commercial projects, technology and AI-powered systems can optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve tenant experiences. How is your firm leveraging these innovations in property management?
Allen Akinbobola: This is precisely our service offering. Low-voltage wiring forms the backbone of our systems, resulting in reduced operational and energy costs and improved efficiency. However, achieving these benefits requires intelligent design and collaboration. That’s why we work closely with interior designers, architects, and developers to ensure projects are optimized from the start.
Timing is critical. Engaging us during the design phase allows us to align the building’s infrastructure with its intended technological capabilities. Conversely, introducing these systems late in the project can increase costs and complexity. Our approach ensures that technology becomes an asset, not a challenge.
Interviewer: Digital twin technology is gaining momentum in urban planning and building management. Do you see applications for this in Nigeria’s real estate development?
Allen Akinbobola: Digital twin technology is essentially the integration of various electronic products and systems to create virtual replicas of physical assets. While the software and system design might vary, the hardware components are often what we already use for other purposes. At AL DI LÀ LUX, we integrate these components to achieve defined goals, whether for monitoring, maintenance, or optimization. The potential for digital twin technology in Nigeria is significant, particularly in large-scale developments and urban planning.
Interviewer: What challenges does Nigeria’s real estate sector face in adopting cutting-edge technologies, and how is your firm addressing these barriers?
Allen Akinbobola: In my opinion, the biggest barrier is knowledge. Technology isn’t magic; it requires understanding, planning, and proper implementation. Many stakeholders in Nigeria’s real estate sector are still catching up with these advancements. At AL DI LÀ LUX, we’re working to close this gap by collaborating with industry partners to educate and inform them about the possibilities and benefits of modern technology. The pace of technological evolution is fast, and staying informed is crucial to remain competitive.
Interviewer: What’s the best way for potential partners and prospects to contact AL DI LÀ LUX?
Allen Akinbobola: We encourage everyone to engage with us via our social media channels or visit our website. For industry partners, our team is actively reaching out, and we’re always open to collaborations that advance innovation in the real estate sector.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing these insights, Allen. It’s exciting to see how technology is transforming real estate in Nigeria.
Allen Akinbobola: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure discussing these advancements and the role AL DI LÀ LUX is playing in driving innovation.
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