A remote control for a wireless control system includes a controller, at least one actuator for operating the controller, a radio-frequency (RF) transmitter coupled to the controller, an antenna coupled to the RF transmitter, and a housing for the controller, the RF transmitter, the antenna and a power source. The antenna comprises a conductive loop mounted in the housing and being disposed in a first plane. The remote control further comprises a surface on the housing disposed in a second plane substantially parallel to and overlying the first plane. The surface has a conductive material disposed thereon substantially coplanar with the second plane and substantially coextensive with said conductive loop on said first plane.