Combined access: how to integrate smart locks with other building systems

In an increasingly connected world, buildings —whether residential, office or tourist— are evolving towards intelligent models in which all their components are interconnected. One of the key elements in this transformation is smart locks. But their true potential is unleashed when integrated with other building systems, creating safer, more efficient and more comfortable environments. In this article, we explore how these combined access controls work, what advantages they offer and how to carry out an effective integration.

What are combined accesses?

Combined accesses refer to the interconnection of access control systems (such as smart locks) with other building technologies. This may include automation, security, energy, climate control, visitor management systems, among others.

The goal is not just to control who comes and goes, but to orchestrate a complete and efficient experience for users, residents, guests or workers. In essence, accesses cease to be an isolated function to become a key piece within the building management ecosystem.

What systems can be integrated with a smart lock?

Modern smart locks, such as those offered by Raixer, are designed to communicate with a wide variety of systems. Some of the most common include:

1. Lighting and climate control automation

When a person accesses a space through a smart lock, the system can turn on the lights, adjust the temperature or activate a preconfigured mode according to the time or user profile.

For example: when entering a shared office, the system can turn on only the area assigned to the user and activate the air conditioning if the temperature exceeds 25 °C.

2. Energy management systems

Knowing who is in the building and when makes it possible to optimize energy consumption. If there is no one there, everything can be turned off. This integration is especially useful in buildings with energy efficiency certifications such as BREEAM or LEED.

3. Smart elevators

By using a code or card to access the building, the system can automatically call the elevator and direct it to the corresponding floor, without the need to press buttons. This functionality improves accessibility and user experience.

4. Video surveillance and alarms

When a lock is activated, a camera or alarm system can also be activated (or deactivated). This integration is key to security, as it allows suspicious access to be recorded or notified to those responsible in real time.

5. Attendance and timekeeping control

In companies, smart locks can be integrated with time control systems, allowing the building entrance to also automatically record the worker's start time.

6. Space reservation management

In coworking spaces or corporate buildings, access can be linked to a booking system: if you have reserved a meeting room from 10:00 to 11:00, you can only open the door associated with that room during that time.

7. Virtual Assistants and Home Automation

Assistants like Alexa or Google Home can be integrated with access controls to allow voice opening, or to activate complete scenes like “night mode”, which closes doors, lowers blinds and turns off lights.

Key benefits of combined access

Implementing combined access is not just a matter of technology; it also brings clear and measurable benefits in different areas:

1. Greater Security

Automation reduces human error: scheduled access, automatic lockouts outside working hours, notifications for unauthorized use, etc.

2. Operational Efficiency

Building or property managers can automate processes, reduce operational burden and make data-driven decisions (for example, knowing which spaces are used the most).

3. Better User Experience

From contactless entry to a personalized space, combined access offers a more fluid, faster, and tailored experience to the end user's needs.

4. Cost savings

By optimizing energy consumption, reducing unnecessary travel (e.g., to deliver physical keys), and avoiding incidents, tangible savings are generated.

Real Use Cases

Office buildings

A shared workspace with code-based access that is updated every week according to users. Upon entering, the system activates lighting and climate control only in the reserved areas. Reservations are made from an app that generates access automatically.

Tourist properties

The guest receives a code that only works during their reservation. Upon entering, the air conditioning is activated and the alarm is deactivated. The system also notifies the cleaning staff after the guest's departure. All without human intervention.

Residential Communities

Neighbors access the portal and storage room with the same card or app. The system can grant temporary access to delivery personnel or technicians and record entries for greater security.

How to carry out a successful integration?

Integrating a smart lock with other systems requires planning, compatible technology, and a mid-term vision. Here are some key steps:

1. Needs assessment

Before installing, it is important to define what you want to achieve with the integration. Energy savings? Improve presence control? Optimize security?

2. Technological compatibility

Not all systems "speak the same language". It is essential to choose locks with open APIs or those compatible with standard protocols like MQTT, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.

3. Centralization on a platform

The more systems there are, the more important it is to have a centralized control panel. Many providers offer dashboards that integrate all data in real-time.

4. Information security

System integration involves sharing data. It is essential that the provider complies with GDPR and uses robust encryption and authentication to protect access.

5. Support and Scalability

Bet on solutions that can grow with the building or business. From adding more locks to integrating with new technologies in the future.

Raixer: intelligent access with total integration

Raixer is one of the most advanced access control solutions on the Spanish market, designed to be easily integrated with other building systems. Its technology allows managing access by PIN code, NFC, mobile app, remote control, voice assistants and cards, giving it a unique flexibility.

In addition, Raixer offers a powerful API that facilitates integration with booking platforms, automation systems, energy management, or presence control. Whether for a tourist apartment, a hybrid office, or an entire building, Raixer allows digitalizing and centralizing all access, offering security, comfort, and scalability. Its modular approach allows starting with one door and scaling up to a complete solution without technical complications.

The future of buildings is connected

Combined access is not a trend, but a structural trend that defines how 21st century spaces should be: safe, sustainable, intelligent and user-centric.

Smart locks are no longer a simple device, but become the heart of an interconnected system. And with tools like Raixer, any building - new or old - can make the leap into this new era without work or complexity.

Investing in integration not only improves the current experience, but also prepares the building for the future: more adaptable, more profitable and more human.

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