While the introduction of remote controls has changed the way we interact with our television and stereo systems, our dealing with domestic lighting systems has largely remained the same: We flick it on at the door.

But innovations in lighting and the rise of smart technology have made controlling illumination even more convenient and it’s only a matter of time before more people embrace this.

“The industry has seen a 20 to 30 per cent increase in the adoption of wireless lighting controls for residential properties in Singapore over the past 10 years,” says Seng Boon Liang, 54, director of lighting company Lutron (South-east Asia). With 30 years of experience in construction and home equipment, he is attuned to the expectations of homeowners. “People look for comfort, security and ambience.”

In response, Lutron’s Homeworks QS system incorporates features like lighting, blinds and energy control. Says Seng: “If my lighting system is linked to my smart device, forgetting to turn off the lights is no longer a bother – I can still switch them off from my car, without having to re-enter my house.”

Beyond convenience, he highlights the increasing importance of lighting in entertaining guests at home. “Having good lighting systems has become a statement of discerning taste,” he says.

For now, Seng jokes that his biggest competitor is still the 100-year-old switch. When people adopt lighting technology, does that mean the switch will become antique? He quips: “There will always be an element of switching – the switch will never go away, it might just exist in a different form.”