Is the change located above the peninsula. Do you have a picture that shows that transition. Maybe a boxed beam?

Actually, yes. I do not have a picture. The boxed beam sounds good. Is there a preferred size of the beam. Thank you.

What's the difference in ceiling height? 4x8 is a pretty typical size for a beam

Wow-lucky; the difference is about 8 inches. Should the beam be the same material as the cabinet? Thanks a lot.

Could be. What are the cabinets. Also there's the option of going with a solid piece of wood as the beam or a false beam which is three pieces of wood assembled to look like a solid beam. Search "how to build a boxed beam". There are also faux beams that are made out of composites. Check out the Big Box stores I would assume they might have what you are looking for.

The cabinets will be glazed maple. How would pendant lights look from the beam. We definitely will need some lights by the island. Kitchen is very traditional with White appliances. Again, thank you for your suggestions.