Recessed LEDs are practical, no doubt, but I went with pendants too—just prefer the softer feel, especially in the evenings. Installed dimmers as well, makes a huge difference when you're winding down after dinner. One thing I'd reconsider though is bulb type. Initially went with Edison-style bulbs for aesthetics, but they weren't bright enough for task lighting. Switched to warmer LED filament bulbs later—best of both worlds.
About the skylight leaks... flashing tape definitely helps, but from experience, it's usually about how well you prep the surface first. Had a similar issue a few years back; ended up removing old caulk and thoroughly cleaning the area before applying new flashing tape. No leaks since then, even through heavy storms.
I hear you on the Edison bulbs—made the same mistake myself. They looked great in the store, but once installed, I could barely chop veggies without squinting. Ended up swapping them out for warmer LEDs too, and it made a huge difference. Also, totally agree about dimmers; they're underrated. Nothing beats dialing down the lights after a long day... instant mood changer.
"Nothing beats dialing down the lights after a long day... instant mood changer."
Totally agree about dimmers, they're a lifesaver. I've installed them in almost every room now—makes a huge difference. One thing I'd add though: if you're going LED, make sure to double-check compatibility with your dimmer switches. Learned that the hard way when my first set of LEDs started flickering like crazy at lower settings. Had to swap out the dimmers for LED-compatible ones, and it was smooth sailing after that.
Speaking of kitchen lighting, has anyone here experimented with under-cabinet LED strips? I've been thinking about adding some to brighten up countertop workspaces without blasting the whole kitchen with overhead lights. Seems like it'd be energy-efficient too, but I'm curious if they're actually practical or just another trendy gimmick...
Under-cabinet LEDs are definitely practical, not just trendy. I put some in a kitchen remodel last year, and honestly, they're one of the best lighting decisions I've made. They're great for task lighting—especially when you're chopping veggies or reading recipes—and they really cut down on shadows from overhead lights. Plus, they're super energy-efficient.
One thing I'd suggest though is to pay attention to the color temperature. I initially went with a cooler white thinking it'd look clean and modern, but it felt kinda clinical after a while. Switched them out for warmer LEDs (around 2700-3000K), and it made the kitchen feel way cozier.
Also, consider placement carefully—too close to the backsplash and you'll see every little imperfection; too far forward and you might get glare off your countertops. Anyone else run into issues with positioning under-cabinet lights?
"too close to the backsplash and you'll see every little imperfection"
Haha, learned that one the hard way too. My backsplash looked flawless until I lit it up like a Broadway stage... definitely agree warmer LEDs are the way to go, clinical kitchens belong in hospitals, not homes.