In this interview with Yasmin Hashmi, KNX trainer, Gordon Fry, talks about how training and education are helping to expand the KNX market in the UK, and makes some suggestions on how the standard can be made even more attractive to electricians.
With a degree in Electronic & Electrical Engineering from Nottingham University, Gordon Fry’s journey into KNX began in 2001, when the protocol, then known as EIB, was still little-known in the UK. From designing landmark projects such as Siemens’ offices and London’s Excel Exhibition Centre, to mentoring hundreds of professionals as BEMCO’s principal tutor, Gordon has been instrumental in transforming KNX from a niche curiosity into a cornerstone of smart building design in the UK.
KNXtoday: how has KNX technology evolved since you began as a trainer at BEMCO in 2017?
When I began as a trainer at BEMCO eight years ago, awareness of KNX technology in the UK was limited. KNX was often dismissed as a ‘German curiosity’, but today, architects, consultants, and contractors increasingly specify KNX by name. That’s a major shift. The UK still lags behind Europe, but momentum is building. Clients now demand KNX solutions rather than settling for proprietary alternatives. KNX isn’t tied to a single brand; it’s an open standard with 500+ manufacturers. Whilst this technical flexibility is a strength, it can complicate the marketing because how do you sell a concept rather than a shiny product? Yet, the tide is turning as specifiers begin to appreciate and embrace its interoperability and scalability.
KNXtoday: what will it take for KNX to truly take off in the UK?
Two words: accessibility and smplicity. KNX is still perceived as a premium solution for high-end homes or commercial projects. To penetrate mainstream markets – I’m thinking of the average three-bedroom semi-detached house – costs must align with broader budgets.
Equally critical is user-friendliness. Many electricians thrive on hands-on work, not laptop programming. KNX is addressing this with innovations such as E-Mode, which enables device pairing via the press of a button – no coding required. Electricians can link switches and dimmers in minutes. S-Mode (System Mode) still caters to complex projects, but expanding E-Mode’s capabilities could really help KNX take off.
KNXtoday: where do you see KNX evolving in the future?
IoT integration has got to be the front-runner. KNX is embracing IP connectivity, wireless protocols, and APIs to bridge with smart devices. Imagine a KNX system orchestrating IoT sensors, voice assistants, and cloud platforms seamlessly! We’re already seeing APIs that let KNX talk to ecosystems such as Sonos or Lutron. This interoperability will define the smart buildings of tomorrow; de-centralised, adaptable, and future- proof.
For professional installers (electricians), this means upskilling in networking and software integration. For clients, it unlocks unparalleled customisation.
KNXtoday: you’ve spent eight years training, what has kept you passionate about it?
Mentorship. Passing on decades of field experience to the next generation is deeply rewarding. I’m not a natural teacher; my background is technical support for brands such as JUNG, but watching students progress from novices to Certified Professionals is gratifying. BEMCO’s ethos as a family-run, KNX-focused business also sets it apart. We get to know our customers and truly value our relationships. Our London location and partnerships with key brands such as JUNG, Theben, Zennio, BAB Techology and Eelectron create variety in our training environment. Plus, our upcoming mentorship programme and redesigned website will bring so much more additional value to installers. Stay tuned for that!
KNXtoday: as you step back from full-time training, do you have any parting advice for the KNX community?
Students are after practical exercises, not just theory. Keep pushing for simplicity. E-Mode is a start, but we need more tools to on-board traditional electricians.
My challenge to the KNX community is to make KNX as intuitive as a light switch. With evolving technology and a growing community, the future looks bright, and connected.
KNXtoday: any other thoughts?
To BEMCO’s team, thank you. Their dedication to KNX education has been transformative. It’s their blend of rigorous training and real-world support that continues to set the standard. They’re your technical partners. Bring them your project puzzles, whether it’s 10 switches or 20 dimmers, and they’ll help you build smarter solutions.
KNXtoday: I’m sure the KNX community would like to join together to thank Gordon for all of his good work and the difference he has made to the industry.
