United States
Client
Private homeowner from the UK
Partner: Squire Group
Goadby Hall is a 17th-century country house in the United Kingdom, set within a private 180-acre (700,000 m²) estate. As a historic site, the building features original architectural elements and well-preserved interiors.
Protecting such a property requires a careful approach. Any modern system installed at Goadby Hall must remain discreet and non-invasive, as drilling, visible cabling, or structural changes would compromise both the appearance and integrity of the building. At the same time, the site needed EN 54 certified fire alarm and reliable intrusion protection to safeguard people, property, and the overall historic value.
Watch how Ajax protects Goadby Hall with a single integrated solution while preserving the building's character
Challenge
Implementing certified fire safety and intrusion protection on a tight deadline without drilling or cabling
Securing a historic site presents challenges that go far beyond standard residential projects. Traditional wired solutions were not suitable, as running cables would require drilling into historic walls and ceilings, leaving permanent marks. Wireless alternatives also posed limitations: thick stone walls and the scale of property make it difficult to maintain stable communication and full system coverage.
Project complexity added another layer of challenge. Managing separate systems for fire safety and intrusion protection would increase operational effort and complicate daily use. The owner therefore required an EN 54 certified fire alarm and intrusion protection system that could be deployed quickly with minimal disruption to the building.
Solution
Fully wireless system installed without impacting the historic building
The partner, Squire Group, recommended building the project around Ajax EN54 Line — a fully wireless addressable fire detection and alarm system certified to EN 54 standards. Ajax was selected for its ecosystem approach, which made it possible to combine fire safety, intrusion protection, and other security capabilities within a single system, rather than deploying and maintaining separate solutions.
At the core of the setup is EN54 Fire Hub Jeweller, a control and indicating equipment (CIE) that manages all fire safety devices. It also supports other Ajax solutions, including intrusion protection, automation, and video surveillance. This approach met the project requirements and exceeded the client's initial expectations by delivering a broader, fully wireless setup managed via a single control panel.
Fire safety was shaped around the building's layout and specific risk profile. Fire detection is handled by EN54 FireProtect (Smoke/Sounder) Jeweller and EN54 FireProtect (Heat/Sounder) Jeweller — wireless smoke and heat detectors installed in the areas most exposed to fire risk. Each detector features a built-in sounder that provides immediate on-site alerts when a fire is detected.
To ensure alerts are clearly heard and seen throughout the site, EN54 FireProtect (Sounder/VAD) Jeweller devices were installed in additional areas. This ensures building-wide audible and visual alert coverage, including areas where fire detection is not required.
Using EN54 I/O Module (2X2) Jeweller devices, the fire alarm system was complemented with LED evacuation signs, emergency lighting, and other fire safety equipment. In the event of a fire, the module automatically controls connected devices to facilitate safe and clear evacuation. When a fire alarm is triggered, the Ajax system responds within 3 seconds, activating sounders, VADs, and integrated safety equipment across the building.
All communication modules are built into each device, eliminating the need for additional transmitters. With a wireless range of up to 1,800 m between the control panel and devices, a single system can efficiently cover a large and complex site.
Goadby Hall spans multiple floors, includes a basement, and extends to nearby utility buildings. Thick stone walls typical of historic architecture did not impede communication: three EN54 Fire ReX Jeweller range extenders were installed, strengthening the signal and maintaining reliable connectivity throughout the property.
Thanks to the high capacity of EN54 Fire Hub Jeweller and its native support for other Ajax solutions, intrusion protection was seamlessly integrated into the same setup. Doors and windows were secured with Superior DoorProtect Jeweller opening detectors, while Superior MotionProtect Jeweller and Superior MotionCam (PhOD) Jeweller motion detectors monitor interior spaces. In addition, Superior HomeSiren Jeweller and Superior StreetSiren DoubleDeck Jeweller sirens provide both audible alerts and visual deterrence, making any intrusion immediately noticeable.
Ajax video products add another layer of security. With IndoorCam Wi-Fi cameras installed, the owner can tap an alarm notification in the Ajax app and instantly open the live camera feed to see what's happening on site. Ajax DoorBell was installed at the main entrance to notify the owner about new visitors and record video if motion is detected.
For on-site control, the system includes Superior KeyPad Plus Jeweller and KeyPad TouchScreen Jeweller keypads. Ajax Superior SpaceControl Jeweller key fobs were also added for quick and convenient control of security modes.
The owner uses the Ajax app on a smartphone to monitor system status, receive instant notifications, and stay informed about events across the property at any time.
Installation engineers benefit from the same level of convenience. Using Ajax PRO apps, they can remotely adjust settings, check device states, run tests, and perform maintenance tasks — often without the need for an on-site visit.
Why Ajax
- A single system instead of multiple separate solutions
All 110 devices operate seamlessly within a unified system built around one control panel. Fire safety, intrusion protection, automation, and video surveillance are managed through the intuitive interface, keeping system control centralized and straightforward. This significantly simplifies daily operation and management.
- Installation with no damage to historic architecture
The fully wireless setup allowed for installation without drilling or cabling. Historic interiors remained intact, while the building gained modern fire safety and intrusion protection.
- One-week deployment with minimal disruption
The wire-free design eliminated installation complexity and reduced additional costs. The entire project was deployed within one week by a single installation engineer, with minimal impact on the estate's day-to-day activities.
