During a project, one of the most important steps I take with my clients is the electrical walkthrough. This is the moment where we review every outlet, switch, and light placement to ensure the home will function seamlessly for daily life—while fully supporting the overall design vision.

An electrical plan isn’t just about meeting code; it’s about anticipating how a space will be used, how it will feel, and how details will come together once the home is furnished and lived in. These are five key items I always review during an electrical walkthrough to ensure the result is both beautiful and practical.

1. Decorative Lighting and Sconce Placement

Decorative lighting does far more than illuminate a room—it sets the tone. During the walkthrough, we confirm exact locations and mounting heights for pendants, chandeliers, and sconces to ensure they align properly with furniture layouts, cabinetry, and architectural details.

Getting this right prevents lighting from feeling awkward, undersized, or visually disconnected from the rest of the space.

2. In-Cabinetry Electrical Needs

Cabinetry often hides some of the most important electrical requirements. This includes outlets for appliances, charging drawers, under-cabinet lighting, and interior cabinet lighting where appropriate.

Reviewing these needs during the walkthrough ensures functionality without compromising clean lines or thoughtful design.

3. Verifying Framing Needs with Your Contractor

Certain lighting elements—such as heavy fixtures, recessed details, or architectural features—require additional framing support behind the walls or ceilings.

Confirming these requirements early, alongside your contractor, helps avoid last-minute changes and ensures everything is structurally prepared before installation begins.

4. Floor Outlets and Television Placement

Floor outlets are often overlooked but can make a significant difference in how a room functions—particularly in open-plan spaces or seating areas away from walls.

This is also the time to confirm television locations, mounting heights, and any concealed wiring so that screens integrate cleanly into the design rather than feeling like an afterthought.

5. Switch Placement and Functionality

Switch placement impacts how intuitive a home feels to live in. During the walkthrough, we review switch locations, groupings, and dimming options to ensure they align with how you naturally move through each space.

Thoughtful switch planning improves daily usability and avoids unnecessary adjustments once walls are closed.

Final Thoughts

A thorough electrical walkthrough protects both form and function. Taking the time to review these details ensures the home works effortlessly behind the scenes—supporting beautiful finishes, thoughtful layouts, and everyday comfort.

When electrical planning is done well, it fades into the background. But when it’s rushed or overlooked, it’s felt every single day.