Thanks for the lighting info, I may do something similar. I'm thinking to have 2 sets like you but maybe set each to the ends of the tank. My plant club has a PAR meter so I can play around to see what works with what I have or get. I wish LEDs would get less expensive.
As for loaches, clowns are wonderful but will eventually outgrow the tank, not for a looonnng while. They're not the most plant compatible loaches, between digging & snacking. It helped to feed romaine & zucchini 2-3 times a week. They're also more crespucular than some (dawn & dusk active) but your gradual lighting will help.
More day active smaller loaches like histrionica or kubotai, both ~5 inches, might be nice. My histys didn't bother plants, I haven't kept kubs (yet). Striata (zebra) are a bit shy IME but pretty & plant safe. Sidthimunki are very small ~2 inches or so, maybe too small for the tank. I'd stay away from yoyos even though I haven't kept them. They have a semi aggressive reputation & dig more than the smaller histys. Skunks are way too aggressive for most tanks IME.
Whatever loaches you decide on, get at least 6 of a species, most are very social. It also keeps the dominant loach from bullying, if just 1 or 2 others that can be an issue.
I hope your doors come soon so we can have more pics!