For every door that closes a new one opens. So sorry about the damage to your home but wow! a new sewing studio for you!!! Cool!
I have no overhead lighting in the rooms I work in and have discussed having them put in with an electrician. Lamps are for the birds in my opinion!! He suggested that fluorescent lights would give the most even lighting in the room. They should be placed above you, not behind you so that there are no shadows from your body getting in the way. I'm hoping to have mine installed before winter. I have to have them put in two rooms since my LA is in a different room than the rest of my sewing stuff. Good luck!