1 will look lonely and lost, unless its a stunning chandelier, while drawing attention to its self and away from the kitchen overall. Don't forget that lights are there for a purpose and 3 will provide a much more even illumination of the workspace.

After 20 years lighting sales and domestic consultation the only advice is to make them equal distance from each other and from the edges of the island. You dont mention anything in or on the island like a sink so if its just work space make sure they arent to low that they create distinct spots of light, the idea is to provide balanced light along the whole benchtop. Also the fact they are such a solid construction they will provide a definite "zoning" effect, you could possibly raise the middle 1 to give a variation to the theme but after all its your home do what YOU want

I’m thinking black pendant lights would compliment your colour scheme beautifully... or dare I say it, my obsession with copper pendants - they will pick up the warmth from your floors & look gorgeous :)

We had a similar dilemma and ended up going with a lighting track and it’s great. Good lighting and looks way better than we expected.