Smart Home Checklists for Orange County, CA Architects and Builders

Designing or building a luxury residence in Orange County today means more than just beautiful architecture — it means designing for technology that enhances comfort, convenience, and lifestyle. Whether in Newport Coast, Laguna Beach, or Corona del Mar, clients expect seamless integration of lighting, audio, climate, security, and networking that performs effortlessly from day one.

At Oasis Smart Homes, we partner with architects, builders, and designers across Southern California to simplify smart home planning. Our comprehensive checklists help ensure every residence is wired, engineered, and supported for reliability, scalability, and long-term performance — all without disrupting your design intent.

Why Smart Home Planning Should Start Early

Smart home technology touches nearly every system in a modern residence — from lighting control and motorized shades to security, AV, and networking infrastructure. When left until late in construction, integration often becomes reactive and costly.

By collaborating during early design and prewire stages, we help architects and builders:

• Coordinate power and low-voltage infrastructure efficiently
• Protect the design aesthetic with discreet placement of devices
• Prevent costly drywall or millwork revisions
• Plan for system scalability and client upgrades
• Deliver a smoother turnover and client experience

A proactive approach not only ensures performance — it protects your craftsmanship and reputation.

The Architect and Builder Smart Home Checklist

Here’s a high-level overview of what we review with design and construction teams on every project in Orange County, CA:

1. Electrical and Lighting Coordination

• Identify locations for Lutron keypads, dimmers, and lighting panels
• Allocate space for control gear and structured wiring enclosures
• Review lighting loads, fixture types, and dimming compatibility
• Confirm motorized shade pockets and power points before framing

2. Network and Wi-Fi Infrastructure

• Plan data cabling pathways (Cat6A or fiber) to all floors and outdoor areas
• Include power and conduit to access points for clean installations
• Provide redundant power and surge protection for critical systems
• Ensure coverage for pool, patio, and guest houses

A robust network is the foundation of every smart home — we treat it as essential infrastructure, not an afterthought.

3. Audio and Video Distribution

• Prewire for whole-home audio and video zones in public and private areas
• Coordinate equipment rack locations and ventilation
• Plan for concealed speakers, subwoofers, and displays in living and outdoor areas
• Include conduit pathways to allow flexibility for future upgrades

4. Security and Surveillance Planning

• Prewire for cameras, smart locks, and sensors before stucco or finishes
• Identify conduit routes for gate control and driveway access
• Integrate camera views and access control into the Savant or Crestron system
• Coordinate motion sensor and keypad placement with wall layouts

5. Shade and Lighting Design Integration

• Align motorized shade pockets and Lutron drapery tracks with ceiling design
• Review fixture placement to maintain even lighting and architectural balance
• Ensure lighting and shade fabrics complement the interior palette

Oasis Smart Homes can work directly with lighting designers or provide in-house lighting design services for a cohesive and efficient result.

6. Equipment Space and Cooling

• Allocate a mechanical or AV closet for networking and automation racks
• Include dedicated power, ventilation, and access for servicing
• Ensure concealed but serviceable cable routing to key rooms

7. System Integration and Programming

• Coordinate device placement with architectural plans and elevations
• Define client “scene” expectations (Welcome, Entertain, Goodnight, etc.)
• Integrate lighting, shades, climate, security, and audio under one platform
• Perform final programming and system calibration before move-in

These checklists form the backbone of every Oasis Smart Homes collaboration, ensuring precision and simplicity from design through handoff.

Collaboration That Protects Design Integrity

Technology should never compete with design. Our team works hand-in-hand with architects, builders, and interior designers to ensure all devices, keypads, and sensors align with the aesthetic vision.

We provide:

• CAD drawings and documentation for accurate coordination
• Low-voltage infrastructure plans ready for permitting and construction
• On-site design reviews during framing and trim-out stages
• Post-installation service and client orientation

From Laguna Beach villas to Newport Coast estates, our collaborative approach ensures homes are as intuitive as they are beautiful.

The Oasis Smart Homes Difference

With more than 30 years of experience, Oasis Smart Homes combines lighting, electrical, automation, and service expertise under one roof. Our unified process delivers unmatched reliability and craftsmanship for luxury homes across Orange County and Scottsdale.

Architects, builders, and homeowners choose Oasis Smart Homes for:

• Integrated lighting, shade, and automation design
• Expertise in Savant, Crestron, Control4, and Lutron systems
• White-glove collaboration from concept through handoff
• 24/7 private client support and remote monitoring
• Local studios in Newport Beach and Scottsdale

Build Smarter, Together

A well-planned smart home isn’t just a feature — it’s a foundation for modern luxury living. With Oasis Smart Homes, your next project in Orange County will deliver a seamless blend of technology, design, and craftsmanship that exceeds client expectations.

Call our Scottsdale studio at (480) 907-7095 or our Orange County studio at (949) 210-9440 to schedule your private smart home consultation!