Note that downlights must be embed, and they are modern lights. When you are talking about hanging pendant lights, do you refer to classic or modern ones? Another question: as you must fix your ornate ceilings, couldn't you set them lower to insert indirect light?

i would need to see pictures of your house for a better advise. In general, for a high ceiling you would need a few pendants that have shades of at least 80cm dia. Use one above dining table and one above coffee table and one in the entry area.
The rest should be strong track lights. I need more details such as pictures and drawings to help you further.