Here's an example of what I mean by not looking generic! http://www.casablancafanco.com/product/period_decor/marrakesh/marrakesh_89073m_hi.html This is the casablanca marrakesh fan. In sTandard configuration it's listed as 14" from ceiling to the lowest part of the fan. I've seen low profile kits (shorter installation poles) advertised, I wonder if this might work if I could get a fan like this to mount closer to the ceiling. BTW, I know I'll lose some effectiveness, but now I have have no fan, so it can't be any worse!

I currently have a kitchen with 12' ceilings. I have all recessed LED lights. Because there are no hanging cabinets, you don't need under cabinet lights. The recessed lights are not blocked by the cabinets. I'm sure there is a preferred measurement from the wall. Mine look like they are about 18" from the wall and shine directly on the counter top. My recessed lights are all switched so that each of the four walls operates from a different switch. Most of the time, I only need one wall on, but occasionally I'll have a two walls on. All four walls and it looks like a retail store. They are all on dimmers. I do have a huge center island with an enormous pot rack over it. The pot rack is lit with halogen puck lights. I rarely turn the pot rack lights on. Actually, I'm thinking of getting rid of the pot rack. It's visual clutter and I don't need the storage. It's just my opinion but I find the wires running across the ceiling visually busy.

​Thank you for all of the responses and great Ideas. I would have liked to not have a light only. But my husband definitely wanted a fan. I found a fan that (I think) will provide some decent light. Hoping it is delivered soon. We have also changed the bulbs in the two floor lamps and have these table top lamps as well… in which we changed the bulbs in these too. When our new sectional comes, we may rethink what kind of lamp(s) to put in this. But, would really like putting lighting inside the boxy areas along the outer walls like Suki Mom suggested. I will be looking into that for sure! We do not typically read in this room. My husband watches sports, and we occasionally watch movies.  Yes, I would love to get new railings. That will be our next project! The house painting is complete and de-yellowed. And until we decide on what to do with the cubby…Our girl is making use out of it.

Initially, I had the same concern that Beverly stated. That is why I sent the unlit second photo in which the fixture appears much whiter. It may be that it is creamier only when lit. Nevertheless, with all due respect, I think it would be fine to add a little warmth for counterbalance to the stark white. It looks like there may be some warmth in the island countertop, too. Also, it would be interesting to see the unknown factor of the kitchen flooring . That may also provide another warm element when revealed. I think the warm glow ,when lit , may just enhance the whole atmosphere.