Like everyone above here ^ LED downlights would be optimal for creating more task focused and general lighting in the space. Due to the nature of your pendant shadowing occurs when the light is on during the evening, this can make it hard to use certain bench space as task areas. If you are unable to do downlights (which can be the case for many customers) wall lights on your task areas would be the next best thing! Try using single spot lights above the areas you use as service spaces, spots that are adjustable would be great as it will allow you to adjust the lighting, be sure that whatever style you select that you pick something that doesn't glare at eye level as this will make it uncomfortable to work with. If you need more help feel free to reach out :) Good luck with your search be sure to post a photo of the final product!

the easiest way to light any space is look at which way the globes point, and you can see it in the picture you posted. When that fitting is turned on the light hits the ceiling first and washes down from there. What you need is functional lighting whether you make a statement of the light or let the kitchen do the talking is up to you, the best form of task lighting for you in there would be a 3 circuit track system, allowing you to place and point the light where you want it. And being 3 circuit the same track could have 3 different functional light fittings suspended from the 1 power source.

Thoughts/opinions appreciated and specific recommendations in providing better lighting to the kitchen without running wires through the timber beams. Either fixing some lighting to the wall above the window, or individual spotlights along the beams. Thanks!

Wait till you get the cabinets and benchtop in and reassess once you see how they bounce lights. You can always add more downlights. The pendants could be hung lower but won’t spread as much light then.