Presidio Investors has made a $75 million private equity investment that merges 15 independent smart-home design-build firms across the United States, creating Bravas, an integrator of electronic lifestyle technologies into custom-built “intelligent spaces” where you live, work and play.
The investment launches a national network of luxury technology integrators, operating as one brand, working across North America with architects, builders, remodelers, interior designers and successful owners of one or more properties, using lighting, shading, climate, entertainment, smart home, voice, wellness, security, surveillance, networking, energy, power, and other technologies, to transform how custom homes and offices are designed, organized and operated.
Bravas is based in Overland Park, Kan., with locations in 13 states, annual revenues around $75 million, and a team of more than 285 professionals, including designers, engineers, installers, technicians and programmers that have earned hundreds of industry awards and certifications. In 2018, Bravas locations collectively completed more than 3,500 residential and commercial projects.
Bravas will use the funding to expand its network of trade partners, build new software and business systems, reinvent service and support, invest in talent, and expand the company with targeted acquisitions throughout the United States and Canada.
With Ryan Anderson as Bravas CEO, the management team comprises owner/operators and key executive additions, including Jay Vandermyde, COO of Bravas, from J.J. Orion in Minneapolis; Doug Klein, CFO, with extensive executive experience in the custom installation and consumer electronics industry; Sean Weiner, chief technology officer, from Starr Systems in Baltimore; Robert Wheeler, director of sales, from J.J. Orion in Austin; Tracey Westbrook, director of human resources and administration, from Home Theater Technologies in Dallas and Fort Worth; Marie Devlin, operations manager, from Smart Systems in Dallas and Fort Worth; and Esty Frakes, accounting manager, from Elevated Electronics.
“Where the business of luxury technology integration is fragmented into smaller businesses operating only in local markets, Presidio is partnering with Bravas management and the initial 15 mergers to create a clear national leader,” said Karl Schade, managing partner and founder of Presidio. “The benefits for our customers will come from the resources of a larger organization, shared expertise and services that create a unique experience for luxury homeowners — and we anticipate growing this investment with acquisitions across the nation.”
