Hi Simran, I totally agree with you. The string lights are beautiful but do not last long. You can use lanterns instead, they look equally stunning. Try getting some in geometric shapes or paper lanterns. If you're still hooked up to the typical string lights, you may go ahead with battery powered LED string lights. A little pricey but worth every penny! Hope you enjoy lighting up the place :)Geometric Pendants Battery operated LED's Good Ol' Paper Lanterns

Pendants seem like a better geometric fit.

Hello there, Since you have put an all white kitchen with recessed lighting, you won't be needing much lumens for the island. As for the length, two small pendants with 12/15W lamps spaced 2-3' apart would be enough to illuminate the space. It's always better than one large pendant because it disperses light over a larger area and aesthetically pleasing as well. Regards, Aurum Ideas and Spaces India

hi karen! do you have any photos of the dining and living room? would love to help, but photos might aid in an accurate suggestion