Lighting design is one of the most impactful and most underinvested aspects of GTA renovation. This thread covers layered lighting strategy and 2026 costs.
The Three Layers
Ambient: pot lights, flush mounts, pendants. Task: under-cabinet (kitchen), vanity lighting (bathroom), desk lighting. Accent: cove lighting, toe kick lighting, picture lights, cabinet interior lighting. Most GTA renovations only install ambient - flat and institutional result.
LED Pot Light Costs
New pot lights during renovation (before drywall): $80-$150 installed each. Retrofit into existing drywall: $150-$300 each. Full living room + kitchen layout (12-20 lights): $1,500-$4,000 during construction. Always specify dimmable drivers.
Under-Cabinet Kitchen Lighting
Hardwired LED under-cabinet (full kitchen run): $400-$1,200 installed. Hardwired is strongly preferred over plug-in - cleaner look, no cords, integrated with dimmer switches.
LF Builders coordinates electrical and lighting on all projects: https://lfbuilders.ca
Share lighting design ideas and inspiration at https://home.renovation.reviews