Lutron vintage dimmers for retrofit projects
by HighEndIntegrator• 7 replies• 37131 views
Hey everyone, I'm working on a historic home renovation project where the homeowner is adamant about maintaining the 1920s aesthetic while still getting modern smart home functionality. They've seen some of the older Lutron dimmer designs and are asking if there's any way to integrate vintage-style controls with a RadioRA 2 or Homeworks system.
I know Lutron has the Palladiom line for high-end aesthetics, but the client wants something that looks more period-appropriate - think rotary dimmers or push-button switches that would blend with their restored Art Deco fixtures. Has anyone successfully retrofitted vintage dimmer faceplates to work with modern Lutron keypads, or found third-party solutions that maintain the aesthetic while providing Lutron integration?
Also curious if anyone has experience with the older Grafik Eye panels in retrofit situations. I've seen some from the early 2000s that have a more timeless look compared to the newer touchscreen interfaces. Would love to hear about any creative solutions you've implemented for clients who want smart home tech without the modern plastic look. Budget isn't really a constraint here - they're willing to pay for custom solutions if necessary.
Replies
LutronFanatic39529 hours ago
For truly vintage aesthetics, I've had success using Lutron's Pico remotes hidden behind custom decorative plates. There's a company called Classic Accents that makes reproduction push-button switch plates, and with some creative mounting, you can hide a Pico behind them. The buttons actuate the Pico underneath. It's not a perfect solution but several of my historic preservation clients have been thrilled with the results. You lose some functionality compared to a full keypad, but for basic on/off/dim it works great.
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PalladiomOwner39577 hours ago
The Palladiom keypads actually come in some beautiful metal finishes that can work surprisingly well in period homes. I have the brass finish throughout my 1930s Tudor and guests often assume they're original to the house. Worth showing the client samples in person rather than just photos.
DIYSmartHome39385 hours ago
Have you looked at the Lutron Claro wallplates? They're cleaner than standard Decora but still pretty modern looking. Probably not vintage enough for your client though.
Control4Enthusiast39169 hours ago
I actually worked on a similar project last year with a 1920s brownstone. We ended up using Homeworks QS with the seeTouch keypads in the architectural style, then had a local metalworker create custom bronze bezels that matched the original hardware throughout the home. Lutron was surprisingly accommodating when we explained the project - they even provided CAD drawings of the keypad dimensions. The total cost for the custom bezels was around $400 per switch location, but for a high-end client that's negligible. The result was stunning and the client has referred us to three other historic home projects since.
SmartShadeMaster39121 hours ago
For the Grafik Eye question - yes, the older 3000/4000 series units have a more classic look. But finding them in good condition is tough, and Lutron has discontinued support. I wouldn't recommend going that route for a new install.
HighEndIntegrator38857 hours ago
Thanks everyone! The Pico behind custom plates idea from LutronFanatic is brilliant - I'm going to reach out to Classic Accents today. And Control4Enthusiast, would you mind sharing the contact for that metalworker? Custom bezels might be exactly what we need for the main living areas.
LuxuryHomePro38497 hours ago
One more option to consider - Forbes & Lomax makes some beautiful toggle and rotary switches with a vintage aesthetic. They're not native Lutron, but they can be wired as dry contacts to trigger Lutron scenes. More complex installation but the aesthetic is unmatched for period homes.
