Assuming recessed cans for kitchen lighting
1. Plan on having ~ 35 lumens per sq ft for general lighting from the main light source(s).
2. The cans should be spaced between 3' to 4' apart in some relatively regular pattern.
3. The distance from the wall is typically between 26" to 32".
4. The final position and layout is influenced by the layout of obstructions in the ceiling such as joists, plumbing, wiring, insulation, ducting, vertical clearance...
5. If you live in California or a region with energy efficiency laws (title 24 for CA), the type of recessed can is strictly governed.
6. LED recessed can lamps (e.g. - Cree CR6, LR6, Sylvania RT6) work much better than the standard bulb in a can configuration as the latter traps a significant amount of light.
7. Under cabinet lighting is very useful.
8. The glimpse LED lights can be used as surface mounted lights and can be used in places where a standard can will not fit.

If you're building soffits, you could consider putting in cove lighting - either LED or T4/ T5 fluorescent. The cove lighting could be used to supplement or replace the recessed can lights.
Alternatively, you could use pendants.

THank you! Your comment is extremely helpful!