Here's a completely non-frugal fix. (Or maybe it is frugal fix if the long term success outweighs the upfront cost)
I bought Phillips Hue light bulb for my 4 can lights in my overly bright LR. The bulbs have independent controllers on each bulb, so they can be controlled independently without changing the wiring or the switch. On/off dim/bright purple/green/orange/brown can all be controlled through a computer or smartphone. Mine are also looped into my security system so that when a specific door is opened, one of the lights goes on. I have mine set up with IFTTT so if it's raining outside, the lights come on brighter and earlier than my normal everyday setting. When the ISS travels overhead, one light changes color and blinks. It's fun and nerdy, but hard to justify spending $60 /bulb. I bought mine pre -MMM. I still enjoy them and may replace them if they ever burn out, but if I did replace them, then I'd have to buy a dimmer switch for that room. I know, not really comparable in price, but I like having one reading light and other mood lights while I watch tv at night. These are the only lights I've found that let me control the ceiling lights independently.