A transmitter apparatus effective for activating a remotely situated appliance includes a radio frequency (RF) transmitter. The RF transmitter is configured to be mounted to a structural element of a building and configured to receive an actuation by a user to wirelessly transmit a signal. An antenna is coupled to the RF transmission circuitry and is arranged and configured to transmit the signal to a remotely situated appliance. The antenna is disposed within an opening in the structural element of the building and is of dimensions so as to extend at least partially through the opening. The antenna transmits the signal to the appliance without significant interference or absorption from the structural element of the building.