In short
Lighting automation means controlling your lights through a home automation system: scenes, dimming, schedules, presence sensors and phone control. It is done with wired systems such as KNX or Loxone in new builds and renovations, or with wireless devices in existing homes.
What you can automate
- Scenes: one touch for “dinner”, “movie” or “leaving home”.
- Dimming: adjustable brightness instead of just on and off.
- Presence: corridors, bathrooms and garages that switch themselves.
- Schedules and presence simulation while you are away.
- One-touch “all off” at the door or from your phone.
- Colour temperature on compatible fittings, warmer in the evening.
Systems: wired or wireless
| Option | When it makes sense | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Wired system (KNX, Loxone Tree) | New builds or full renovations. | Needs cabling while walls are open. |
| Wireless system (e.g. Loxone Air or others) | Existing homes, extensions. | Some devices depend on batteries or coverage. |
| Standalone smart bulbs or plugs | Small trials. | Several apps, little integration and reliance on vendor cloud. |
Steps to plan it
- Walk through the house room by room and note how you use light throughout the day.
- Decide which circuits need dimming and which only need switching.
- Choose fittings and drivers compatible with the planned dimming.
- Define the main scenes — a few useful ones beat many unused ones.
- Always keep physical switches: the phone complements them, it does not replace them.
Common mistakes
- Choosing non-dimmable or incompatible fittings.
- Relying only on an app with no wall switches.
- Mixing brands that do not integrate and ending up with several apps.
- Leaving no documentation for future extensions.