In this conversation, Leon Speakers president Noah Kaplan and outdoor audio specialist James Banfield discuss how outdoor living spaces are increasingly being treated as true extensions of the home, with technology playing a central role in shaping both the experience and the design of those environments.
Kaplan explains that Leon’s long-standing philosophy of blending art, audio and design naturally translates outdoors, where entertaining and social interaction often take place. Rather than viewing outdoor audio as an add-on, the company approaches these spaces holistically, combining sound and lighting to create atmosphere and emotional impact.
Banfield notes that outdoor system design has evolved significantly over the past several decades. What once involved simply mounting speakers to exterior walls now requires integrators to consider the full landscape context, including acoustics, placement, terrain and visual harmony. This shift has influenced both product development and installation strategy, pushing manufacturers to develop solutions that integrate more seamlessly into architectural and environmental settings.
Kaplan expands on this by describing speakers as design fixtures rather than standalone components, emphasizing the importance of offering varied forms, finishes and customization options that align with broader trends in architectural lighting and product design.
Durability remains a key technical consideration, particularly in regions with harsh weather conditions or challenging environmental exposure. Banfield outlines the importance of material selection, cabinet construction and sealing techniques, while Kaplan highlights the company’s focus on long-term serviceability and sustainability through repairable product designs and localized manufacturing processes.
Both stress that integrators who engage earlier in the design process are better positioned to deliver cohesive outcomes. As outdoor systems become more sophisticated, they argue that framing audio and lighting as foundational infrastructure rather than optional enhancements represents a meaningful opportunity for business growth and differentiation in the custom integration market.
