I second the choice of 6" LED cans. Now there are CR6 cans ~ 64.99 from Polar-Ray. 6" LED cans are cheaper than 4". You'll probably need to use title 24 compliant lights (GU24 base)

Thanks for the input. I figured the peninsula was long enough for 3 pendants, but my concern is how close the one will be to the upper cabinet just to the left of the cooktop; this is what pushed me to think just 2 pendants may be better. I've read that it is ideal to have the recessed lighting 24" from the wall above countertops for best lighting at the workspace. Following this rule leaves what looks to be a large void between the pendant lights and the recessed lighting along the fridge wall. The "large void" in reality is less than 8' so I may be concerned over nothing. The picture below is what I have for my initial design, and may better illustrate what I am talking about. Circles = 6" Recessed Light Pentagon = Pendant Light I should also note that I have 8' high ceilings.

Thanks for the comments. I understand what i have there at the moment is not really ideal for lighting so was looking for some helpful advice as to what would work better :-) In a perfect world a kitchen designer would probably be amazing but this is a budget renovation in a small space in a small house. Janet - i think i need a fan as its a hot room in Queensland.... and we have no ac. We dont have gas to worry about. I am considering not having the fan but i think i would definitely use it and would make for a more pleasant environment in summer. Sophie - I was really just asking for advice on lighting but if you want to critique the kitchen design thats fine but some suggestions on how to do better would be more useful. The island is 1860 x 1040 with only a small sink so approx 1200 x 1000 free bench space on there. There is also 2 lots of 900 x 600 bench space on either side of the cooktop. Of course we would love more but im not sure how we can get any more in this small space? Feel free to share your ideas. You should see the current kitchen we have which has exactly zero bench space, this is going to be a huge improvement. Patricia - sorry maybe ceiling fans are not needed where you are... There is a rangehood above the cooktop which can be vented outide so that is covered thanks. I am proposing a pendant over the dining table. Will definitely be going to some lighting stores but was hoping to get some good advice here to ease my mind. I

I would keep it silver. It blends better with your kitchen finishes, and lets your dining table light be the main focus. You don't ned the contrast of a dark finish there, especially if you are keeping three lights. I would look for lights with clear glass, or silver in a square shape like your other light. Or you may be able to change out the glass bell without changing your whole fixture.