I need to get back to you. First, in the traditional sense, you have to keep the impedance (Z) of the speaker the same when switching them in and out or you can wire them in series an parallel to keep Z within the amp range. L-pads were used to change the volume at the speaker level. There are speaker switchers which will allow so many pairs of speakers. This suggests the home run approach.
Stores use what's called a 70 V line. On each speaker there is a transformer and a tap that selects the relative volume.
What I would like you to do is research some whole house audio systems. Here are a few places to start.
Website Index - HomeTech Solutions and
Smarthome - Home Automation, X10, Remote Control, Lighting, Wireless Security.
For all I know, they could be using local amplifiers and controlling them with CAT 5 cable and putting the sound over CAT 5. ANything is possible.
Come back with questions.