Evolving the Smart Home: The Future Is Already Here

"What if tomorrow you could have the best of both worlds—smart home technology and factory efficiency?” Said Audree Grubesic, host of Offsite Dirt Network. That’s not a far-off dream. In fact, it’s happening today—and it’s reshaping how we build and live in our homes.

We’re back with our friends at Leviton, joining them at their Lake Nona, Florida facility, where innovation is more than a buzzword—it’s a reality in motion. Together, we’re exploring how the Leviton Decora Smart platform is creating a new standard for modular builders and homeowners alike.

A Foundation That’s Built to Scale

“We’re talking about an evolved platform,” Rick Forbush explained, “really, what does that mean? What is the foundation?”

At its core, it starts with replacing traditional switches and receptacles with Leviton's Decora Smart wiring devices. These serve as a scalable base layer—allowing builders to install cost-effective components at the factory, while giving homeowners the ability to upgrade with smart modules at any point in the future.

“You can scale from one smart switch on the front porch up to 80 or 90 devices in the home,” Rick Forbush added. “Just snap it in—it’s ready to go.”

Efficiency for Builders, Flexibility for Homeowners

Greg Rhoades, the director of marketing at Leviton, shared how this simplicity is a game-changer:

“Builders spend so much time debating—should the dimmer go here? Should this be a USB? Is this a kid’s room? A nightlight? This takes out all those questions. I’m just picking from one bucket of switches and outlets, and the homeowner can decide later. It’s low-cost, super efficient, and a huge win for the factory floor.”

Even better? Homeowners don’t need to call in electricians to make changes. They can customize their home—on their own terms.

“It truly evolves with your lifestyle,” Greg continued. “Moving furniture, growing families, changing needs—it gives you the flexibility you’ve never had before.”

A Post-COVID Paradigm Shift

Since the pandemic, our homes have become our everything—offices, schools, gyms, entertainment spaces. That’s why building smarter from day one is more important than ever.

“We know people are working, playing, and living more at home. The Decora Evolve platform gives them the freedom to evolve without costly upgrades. And builders? They can finally offer personalization options without logistical headaches.”

Smart, Safe, and Simple

Upgrading doesn’t even require a screwdriver.

“There’s no need to power down, remove the wall plate, or disrupt your life,” the team emphasized. “It’s tamper-resistant, safe—even with a module removed. This is the evolution of outlet safety and home customization.” Said Rick Gavenda, Director, National Accounts at Leviton Manufacturing Co Inc.

Let’s Go See It in Action - Part 3 is coming next on 6-18-25

Before wrapping up our visit, someone smiled and said: “What do you say? Maybe we should go check it out?” And that’s exactly what we did. Because the future isn’t just something to talk about—it’s something to walk through, live in, and experience.

With Leviton and modular builders leading the way, the future of smart living is here—and it’s modular, flexible, and ready for every lifestyle.  Make sure to follow up with our next segment on the reveal of the Smart switches and ease of using this lighting product.