u/Aggravating_Shift949

Image 1 — Build-in cabinet design
Image 2 — Build-in cabinet design

Build-in cabinet design

Trying to optimize this living room for SF resale — would love honest feedback on the color of built-ins cabinet near fireplace

This is a 1920s-ish home in California . I’m trying to balance modern buyer appeal while still keeping some character.

Current design elements:

- Euro oak floors

- Benjamin Moore Simply White walls

- decorative/chandelier-style crown trim

- Fireplace painted Benjamin Moore Narragansett Green

Considering adding low built-in cabinets on both sides of the fireplace

I mocked up two versions:

- Warm greige built-ins

- Crisp white built-ins

Main questions:

- Which cabinet color works better for resale?

- Do the built-ins improve the room, or should I leave the sides open?

My goal is:

- warm modern feel

- slightly elevated/high-end

- broad buyer appeal in SF

Would appreciate any honest feedback from designers, stagers, or homeowners who’ve sold recently.

u/Aggravating_Shift949 — 4 days ago

Hey everyone,

I’m trying to fix an under-cabinet fluorescent light that won't turn on, even after replacing it with a brand-new F8T5 tube from Home Depot.

Here is the setup and what I've tested:

• It's controlled by a 3-way switch.

• I tested the wiring with a non-contact voltage tester (pen), and it does show that voltage is present when the switch is toggled on.

• We recently had our main electrical panel replaced.

I'm considering a few possibilities and would love an expert's take:

  1. Tube compatibility: Do 3-way switches require a specific type of tube? Or is it possible the Home Depot tube is just a dud and I should try ordering another brand from Amazon?

  2. Wiring issue: Since we just had the electrical panel replaced, is it possible the voltage pen is picking up a "hot" wire, but the circuit is actually missing a neutral connection or ground? (Btw, the other lights on the same breaker is good)

  3. Dead ballast: Could the fixture's internal ballast be dead, (I am thinking unlikely given all 4 of under cabinet lights are not working)

Appreciate any troubleshooting advice!

u/Aggravating_Shift949 — 19 days ago