I guess my main take-away, which I don't seem to be communicating very well, was that there was something about the 5" (or are they 4"?) that looked significantly better (and less cheese hole like) than the 6" cans in her home on similar ceilings. They just looked a LOT less obtrusive. I think part of it was the size in our small homes with short ceilings. But, I think part of it was also that the inner area was different. The bulbs were not receded into the cans. Instead, there was some kind of casing that was even with the ceiling and the bulb area was small (maybe 2"?) and even with that line, too. The lighting was not diffuse. It was more sparkley and bright. It was just really interesting, given there were cans on in the adjoining DR that were the 6" we've been considering - and could still use in our adjoining hallway. I'm explaining this HORRIBLY. I should have taken pics. Is anything I am saying making sense? Do you have any idea what lights were in that kitchen?

Pot lights or recessed lights should be placed to align with the edge of your counter not in the path (walkway). There is no cupboard over the sink typically so the 1 light can go directly over the sink. See excellent article below. I would like to ask abound the stove/range hood that has a light and what to do about pot lights for that area. https://www.proremodeler.com/recessed-kitchen-lighting-reconsidered

If you are planning an island then try to make the size that will allow you to have 3.6 feet all around and enjoy what you have to work with. The lighting position can be 12 inch centers from cabinet faces to wash color on the cabinets and bring out detail....try for spacing centered on the cabinets around the perimeter of the room. The lights need to be colors that work with the cabinets to make them look good....over the island you might want bright LED to give maximum work light.....lastly puck type lights under cabinets on the perimeter to make the back splash shine. Inspiration or possible rooms that might be what you are trying to envision. Candice Olson has a book about kitchens and bathrooms you can find online or in the library. She discusses recessed lighting in the kitchens I believe and online on her design site. Good luck.

Full disclosure... I’m generally not a fan of recessed lights in non task areas. Where were you are planning on putting a sofa in that room? Anyone under the soffit might think they are getting interrogated. Having a couple of switched outlets might achieve the same