yes,
of redesign is regured there are few things to consider
unlike DC dimmers where simple PWM is used, dealing with AC is a bit more complicated.
issue is that in AC circuit we don't use (normally) transistors because of voltage and power levels.
device of choice is either SCR (thyristor) or triac. basic difference between the two is that
SCR only works one way (one halfperiod of the sine, like a diode) while triac conducts both ways.
next thing to know is that once they turn on, they stay on until AC cycle goes through zero.
this means that proper control requires knowing when zero crossing occurs,
then use some delay and after that delay, fire the trigger. if delay is short, we get current for most of the half period (full brightness).
if we wait longer, smaller fraction of halfwave is used (dimmer light).
basically this looks a lot like PWM but it is synchronized with AC.
here is example of what current looks like when trigger is fired at different time:
https://www.eurotherm.co.uk/EasysiteWeb/getresource.axd?AssetID=47574&type=full&servicetype=Inline
simple dimmers use RC circuit to create adjustable phase shift or delay. to use that principle,
one would need a hand (or motor) to keep on adjusting it to get effect you are looking for.
the other way is use mentioned method with detecting zero crossing (and start timing at that instant)
and when time expires fire the trigger.
how simple or complicated this can or has to be depends on your experience level.
for example one can use micro-controller or with few more parts do everything without programmable devices.