The custom integration industry moves at a rapid pace. Homeowners no longer view technology as simply a television on a wall or a set of speakers. The focus has shifted toward creating cohesive environments that blend aesthetics, convenience and autonomy.
At CEDIA Expo/CIX 2025, Adam Eberhardt of Resolute Design Group shared insights on the current state of residential custom integration. With over 30 years of experience, Eberhardt highlights a significant industry pivot toward lighting control, autonomous spaces and robust network infrastructure.
Watch the full video Q&A recorded live at CEDIA Expo/CIX 2025 below:
The Shift Toward Advanced Lighting Control
Lighting has become the central focus for many integrators in recent years. Historically, lighting control simply meant scheduling a light to power on or dim. Now, the industry focuses on the quality, type and color of light. Integrators can program circadian rhythms that match natural sunlight patterns to improve daily living.
This advancement requires professionals to engage early in the building process. Integrators increasingly collaborate alongside architects, interior designers and landscape architects. A beautifully designed stone fireplace or a cherished piece of artwork loses its impact without proper accent lighting. By collaborating early, integrators ensure technology highlights the architectural details rather than competing with them.
Client education remains a challenge. Many homeowners still view integrators purely as audio and video specialists. They rarely consider shading, outdoor lighting or unifying color temperatures throughout the house. Integrators must guide clients through the available options and focus on the final result rather than the technical specifications.
Redefining the Smart Home
The definition of a smart home continues to evolve. In the past, smart homes were highly programmed environments that required manual input to execute specific tasks. True smart homes are now autonomous.
Using occupancy and vacancy sensors, the home detects when someone enters or leaves a room. The lighting adjusts automatically without requiring a button press or voice command. This shift from performative programming to autonomous response is transforming how clients interact with their spaces.
Entertainment Becomes Social
The concept of the home theater is also evolving. Dedicated, dark movie rooms are giving way to multi-function social spaces. Modern entertainment rooms often include shuffleboards, pool tables and open seating. These spaces encourage social interaction while people enjoy movies or music together.
Technology Enters New Spaces
Smart integration is expanding into non-traditional rooms like bathrooms and kitchens. Clients want precise color temperatures in bathroom lighting to accurately apply makeup or choose clothing. Steam showers now feature integrated speakers and chromotherapy lighting.
As technology integrates into appliances, the lines between trades blur. When a refrigerator features internal cameras or a coffee station sits in the primary bedroom, integrators must coordinate closely with plumbers, electricians and cabinet makers to ensure seamless operation.
The Critical Role of Network Infrastructure
None of these advancements function without a solid foundation. The most critical component of any modern home is its network infrastructure. Homeowners often assume a standard router from an internet provider will support their needs. However, the sheer volume of connected devices easily overwhelms basic equipment.
A single person might carry a phone, smart watch, tablet and laptop. Add multiple family members, guests, streaming services and wired smart appliances to the mix. Without a robust enterprise-grade network, systems will fail.
Local Control Over Cloud Dependency
Integrators also advise against relying entirely on cloud-based applications. While having a dedicated app for every device seems convenient initially, managing a dozen different apps quickly becomes frustrating.
Unified control systems offer a better user experience but must be chosen carefully. Systems that rely entirely on cloud servers pose significant risks. If an internet outage occurs or a server goes down, homeowners might lose the ability to control their lights, shades or security systems.
A reliable smart home utilizes an on-premise system that operates independently of the internet. This ensures consistent performance and keeps personal data secure within the home.
Looking Ahead
While predicting technology changes 10 years out is impossible, experienced integrators can confidently plan for the next five years. By staying educated on new standards like Power over Ethernet and shifting consumer expectations, custom integrators like Eberhardt ensure homes remain functional, beautiful and truly smart.
Planning ahead to stay at the forefront of smart home innovation? Mark your calendar for the next edition of CEDIA Expo/CIX, scheduled for Sept. 1-4 in Denver, Colorado. Attend to connect with industry leaders, explore the latest technologies and gain actionable insights to advance your projects.
