Not using Launchpad nor multiple desktops (like you, I find two monitors are enough), but exposé mapped on hot corners is very useful, to either switch to an in

Not using Launchpad nor multiple desktops (like you, I find two monitors are enough), but exposé mapped on hot corners is very useful, to either switch to an invisible app, or access the desktop. A quick mouse move to the top-right (with mouse acceleration, you don't need the movement to be long, just fast), and there you go.