As smart home technology becomes a more integral part of residential and multi-family design, events like CEDIA Expo/CIX are drawing increased interest from interior designers looking to better understand how these systems fit into their projects. For interior designer Natasa Obradovic, the show represents an opportunity to connect design intent with rapidly evolving technology.
Obradovic, a designer with Chicago-area firm KN Design, told CE Pro that she attended the show last year independently to learn how technology can be meaningfully integrated into residential and multi-family design. She also focused on learning how to build relationships within the custom integration industry.
“I was initially introduced to CEDIA Expo/CIX through NKBA and KBIS and attended out of curiosity, but it quickly became clear that it is an essential resource for expanding my knowledge as a designer,” Obradovic says.
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A Bridge Between Design and Technology
Obradovic’s introduction to the show came through NKBA KBIS, but what began as curiosity quickly turned into something more substantive.
“As an interior designer, I see CEDIA as a bridge between design and integrated technology,” she says. “It allows me to better understand how to incorporate smart home solutions into my projects in a way that feels intentional and seamless.”
That sentiment reflects a broader shift in the design community, where technology is no longer treated as an afterthought. Instead, designers are increasingly expected to understand how systems like lighting control, audio, and shading can be incorporated early in the design process.
“Ultimately, knowledge is power — and staying informed on emerging technologies allows me to better serve my clients and design spaces that are both functional and forward-thinking,” she adds.
Seeing Technology Applied in Real-World Design
For designers new to the category, one of the most valuable aspects of CEDIA Expo/CIX is the ability to see how products are implemented in real environments. Obradovic points to the Technology Designer Magazine Curated Tours, led by Douglas Weinstein, as a key highlight.
“As a first-time attendee, this was an incredible way to navigate the show,” she says. “The tour provided direct exposure to leading vendors such as DMF Lighting, Sonos, Crestron, TCL, Cleerline, and Black Nova, and helped me better understand how these technologies are applied in real-world environments.”
More importantly, the experience highlighted a key trend shaping the industry.
“It reinforced how seamlessly technology is being integrated into everyday living — particularly solutions that are no longer visually intrusive, but instead enhance the overall design,” she says.
How is Design-Forward Technology Driving Interest?
That move toward less visible, more design-conscious technology is a major draw for designers. Obradovic points to several examples that stood out on the show floor.
“I was especially drawn to the design-forward approach of several systems,” she explains. “Black Nova’s matte black control interfaces stood out for their minimal, architectural aesthetic, while Crestron’s user interfaces — offered in a variety of finishes — demonstrated how customization can align with interior design palettes.”
Audio solutions are also evolving in ways that align with design priorities.
“Additionally, Sonos’ integrated in-wall speaker systems were impressive in how they disappear into the architecture while still delivering high performance,” she says. “These solutions reflect a broader shift toward technology that supports the design vision rather than competing with it.”
What Sets CEDIA Expo/CIX Apart for Interior Designers?
Compared to other trade events, Obradovic says the show’s strength lies in its balance between innovation and application.
“CEDIA Expo/CIX stands out because it brings together both the technical and design sides of the industry,” she says. “Unlike other trade shows, it emphasizes not just product innovation, but how those products are implemented in real-world environments — which is critical for designers working in residential and multi-family projects.”
While the experience delivered value, Obradovic sees an opportunity for the event to further strengthen its appeal to the design community.
“Greater collaboration between designers, architects, and technology integrators would elevate the experience even further,” she says. “More cross-disciplinary panels or real project case studies would help bridge the gap between design intent and technical execution, ultimately leading to stronger and more cohesive project outcomes.”
Beyond the Show Floor
For first-time attendees, the experience extends beyond technology alone. Obradovic highlights the importance of community and representation within the industry.
“As a first-time attendee, the experience was both insightful and inspiring,” she says. “I was also invited to attend the Women in Consumer Technology lunch and Legacy Awards, which was especially impactful. It highlighted the growing presence and influence of women within the industry and added a meaningful layer of connection beyond the show floor.”
She adds that the experience reinforced a key takeaway for her work moving forward: “Overall, the experience reinforced the importance of integrating technology early in the design process and strengthened my perspective on collaboration across disciplines.”
A Growing Opportunity for the Industry
Obradovic’s experience underscores a broader trend: interior designers are becoming a more active and engaged audience within the smart home channel. As technology continues to blend into the built environment, events like CEDIA Expo/CIX are increasingly positioned as a meeting point between design and integration.
For designers, the value lies not just in discovering new products, but in gaining the knowledge needed to ensure those technologies enhance, rather than disrupt, the spaces they create.
