Thanks guys ...here is an update:

I have succeded in moving all but two junction boxes to an area along
an exterior wall. If necessary, I can have the section below the
boxes removable ( Its 2 ft wide by 6 ft long). Any lighting sytems
will alos be supplied from this area.

Having done all these, I am still open to other ideas. I was at the
local Home Depot (Toronto, Canada) and the only alternative to
suspended ceiling that I saw was a ceiling tile 12 x 12 in that could
be stapled to wood strips.

I have seem the CeilingMax system suggested in one of the posts - I'll
look around the other hardware stores tomorrow.

I'll keep you all posted.
Thanks.