That makes sense.
Whatever it will turn out to be, you can control the lights from one central location.
If you make the lights with light sensors (I would choose ldr) and motion detectors, you can make the central unit as complex or as simple as you would like.
You could add a current clamp over the mains wire, to see if any electrical machine is on.
Adding a remote control would be nice.
And sending a detection alert to a sms or website, as a burglar alert.