I like recessed cans, much to the dismay of my sister, a lighting specialist. As she points out, recessed lighting leaves ceilings dark, which makes it difficult to achieve a well lit room, but, for me, the absence of protruding light fixtures makes up for that. In a typical 12x12or 14x14 bedroom or dining room, I use four cans, each placed about three feet from the corners, so they illuminate the walls enough to reflect a fair amount of light into the center of the room. Kitchens require more illumination, so, for example, our 12x18 kitchen has eight down cans. Small or narrow spaces like foyers or halls really need surface mounted fixtures to be bright and cheery. Living rooms and dens are apt to need table and/or floor lamps along with recessed lighting. If the recessed fixtures are in an attic, get ones that allow insulation to be packed around them.

Work with a little cal lighting designer. Often found at lighting stores. If you purchase at least some of your lighting through them, their services are usually free.