After a lengthy process we're on the verge of getting ~25 recessed LED lights (remodel cans) installed and most will be on Lutron Maestro MACL‑153M dimmers. See attached photo for reference (note the existing kitchen light will be eliminated). We're in the Philadelphia area and the quote including LEDs/dimmers is ~$3,700 (also getting a few other smaller items done). The electricians will not be finishing/painting the sheetrock. A few questions:

(1) Thoughts about the layout? We have 8' ceilings and plan to install the lights 3' from the walls and 4' apart. The square footage of the Kitchen, Family Room, and Living room are ~150, ~250, and ~250 respectively.

(2) Contractor wants to do 6" HALO (RL56 600 series model / 80 CRI / 670 Lumens). From reading the GardenWeb I'm partial to the 6" CREE (CR6 series model / 90 CRI / 625 or 800 lumens). Should we push for the CR6? Contractor buys HALO in bulk so they're pretty inexpensive.

(3) How far should gimbals be from the red-brick fireplace mantle? Contractor is suggesting three 4" HALO gimbals (ELG4069 model / 90 CRI / 700 Lumens). I think we may be fine with two and probably could get away with 3" gimbals - thoughts? Should we stick with one brand when doing the lights - all HALO or all CREE?

(4) Our island is 5'x3' do you think we should do 2 or 3 pendants?

(5) For the hallway between the kitchen and family room do you think we should go with 4 lights instead of 3 and put 2 on the switch for the kitchen (e.g., pantry/kitchen lights) and 2 on their own switch or just put all three of the propose lights on the same switch/dimmer as the kitchen lights?