How to zone and automate a full-house smart lighting system in a 1950s ranch

[Joseph7]

I'm renovating my 1950s ranch-style home and want to implement a cohesive smart home lighting system that's both functional and enhances the architecture. I'm overwhelmed by the choices between ecosystems like Philips Hue, Lutron, and standard switches with smart bulbs. For homeowners who have done a full-house implementation, what was your strategy for zoning and automation? How do you balance aesthetic fixtures with smart functionality, especially in rooms with existing overhead lights versus adding new lamps? What are the most reliable setups for complex routines like morning wake-up or movie night scenes, and how do you handle integration with other smart home systems without creating a single point of failure?