How tall are your ceilings and are they original, if so I wouldn't use downlights.(damage to the ceiling) you can use different track lighting and lamps Houses of this period are sometimes kept in traditional colours and furniture, but they look mazing pared back in one colour white comes to mind then modern minimalist lights work beautifully

Ceiling fans are practical though and there are many styles these days that can look great in a period home. I live in a 1940's home, it has timber panelled walls and looks more art deco than modern. The ceiling fans are a god send as the windows are small and not well placed for natural cross ventilation.