Today’s backyards are doing a lot more than they used to. With the help of smart technology, outdoor spaces across Phoenix are being transformed into high-tech retreats—perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the desert lifestyle. Whether you’re adding a few connected lights or building a fully integrated entertainment area, the possibilities are endless. Imagine streaming your favorite playlist while watching the game on a weatherproof outdoor TV, all while your lighting system adjusts automatically as the sun sets. With thoughtful planning and the right technology, your backyard can feel just like a resort—right at home.
At Kevens Landscape, we specialize in turning outdoor spaces into seamless, stylish, and functional environments. We understand that your yard should work for your lifestyle, not the other way around. Our goal is to bring together smart lighting, music, and outdoor entertainment systems to create a comfortable, inviting, and easy-to-use space for you and your guests.
Plan Your Smart Outdoor Setup the Right Way
Before you buy any gadgets or run wires, it’s important to start with a solid plan.
Think of your outdoor space like any other room in your home. Where should the lights go? Where will you watch TV? How can music fill the space without being too loud in one area?
Our landscape design team at Kevens will help you create a layout that includes:
- Electrical and wiring routes
- Wi-Fi and network coverage
- Design elements that hide tech and make your space look amazing
Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading your current yard, we’ll make sure your smart outdoor design is both beautiful and functional.
Want more tips on design? Check out our blog on 3D Landscape Design Ideas.
Choose the Right Outdoor-Rated Equipment
Smart tech is only smart if it works outdoors — especially in the Phoenix heat and dust.
Outdoor Speakers
- Wired vs. Wireless
Wireless options like Sonos outdoor speakers are great for easy control from your phone.
Wired systems often provide better sound coverage for larger spaces. - Speaker Types
Choose from:- Landscape speakers hidden in garden beds
- Rock speakers that blend into natural areas
- Mounted speakers for patios or pergolas
Outdoor TVs
Regular TVs just won’t last in Arizona. Brands like SunBriteTV make weatherproof TVs that can handle dust, sunlight, and high temps.
Tip: Choose shaded areas or install under a patio cover. Learn about shade options in our Patio Covers Guide.
Smart Lighting
Use weather-rated smart lights from trusted brands like Philips Hue or Lutron.
Options include:
- Smart plugs for quick upgrades
- Fully integrated lighting systems designed and installed by Kevens Landscape
We’ll help you create scenes that light up your yard beautifully and efficiently.
Build a Reliable Outdoor Wi-Fi Network
Your smart outdoor tech is only as good as your Wi-Fi signal. Weak coverage leads to glitches, buffering, or dropped connections.
Here’s how to get strong outdoor Wi-Fi:
- Install a Wi-Fi extender or an outdoor-rated access point
- Use hardwired Ethernet lines for TVs or sound systems
Check out our tips for adjusting irrigation timers in Arizona — another smart upgrade for your yard!
Connect & Power Your Outdoor Sound System
Wireless Setup
Use amps like the Sonos Amp or WiiM Amp to stream music from your phone or smart speaker.
Benefits:
- No wires across the yard
- Easy control from your device
Wired Setup
For larger yards or better sound quality, a wired system may be best.
Kevens Landscape can:
- Run direct-burial speaker wire
- Hide wires in protective conduit
- Match your hardscape or landscaping for a clean, polished look
Link Your Outdoor TV to the Sound System
Want surround sound for your backyard movie night?
Use:
- HDMI ARC
- Optical audio
- Wireless adapters
You can also integrate everything into a smart home system, so you can control your sound, lights, and TV with one app or voice command.
Thinking of a fire pit for movie nights? Read our post on Built-in vs Prefabricated Fire Pits.
Integrate and Automate Lighting
Smart lighting isn’t just for looks — it’s for convenience and safety.
Kevens Landscape can design automated lighting scenes that:
- Turn on at sunset
- Sync with your entertainment setup
- Highlight trees, water features, or garden paths
You can even control lights from your phone or smart assistant like Alexa.
Need more landscape lighting ideas? Visit our Landscape Lighting Design Guide.
Create Custom Outdoor Living “Scenes”
Want to impress guests or just unwind after work? With a smart setup, you can create “scenes” at the touch of a button.
Here are a few examples:
- Movie Night – Lights dim, outdoor TV powers on, speakers switch to surround sound
- Pool Party – Colorful lighting with a summer playlist
- Relaxation Mode – Warm white lights with soft, ambient music
Control it all with apps like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa.
Why Choose Kevens Landscape for Smart Outdoor Installations
We don’t just install equipment — we design complete smart outdoor living spaces that fit your lifestyle and the Arizona environment.
What makes Kevens different?
- Turnkey outdoor design — we handle landscaping, electrical, lighting, and tech
- Experience with Arizona weather — we only use products built to last in the heat and dust
- Trusted by the community — backed by 5-star reviews and decades of experience
Want a space that’s low maintenance and high tech? We’ve got you covered. Visit our post on Low Maintenance Landscape Design Ideas to learn more.
Smart Outdoor Living Starts with a Smart Plan
Your backyard should be more than just a place to sit—it should be a place where you can relax, have fun, and enjoy every part of outdoor living. With the help of Kevens Landscape, your smart outdoor space can include everything from high-quality audio systems and weather-resistant TVs to professionally designed lighting scenes that enhance both mood and safety. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading an existing space, our team can handle everything—from electrical work and Wi-Fi to product selection and installation—all tailored for Arizona’s unique climate. Don’t wait to bring comfort and convenience outside. Contact us today to schedule your personalized consultation, visit our El Mirage showroom to explore design ideas in person, or browse our portfolio to see how we’ve helped other Phoenix Valley homeowners build the ultimate outdoor escape.