For running wires, I use CAT5, not coax cable.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/220994815246
One pair for video, one pair for power, and 2 cameras per cable. About
150 ft maximum.

A friend wants to wire his home for cameras. The front door is the most
troublesome: inside the door is the living room, high ceilings and windows
running almost the full height.

How does one get power (and if using wired cameras, data) to/from a camera?

I told him it would require significant ripping up of the sheetrock
(textured, of course) and re-doing it all after the install. He isn't
tempted.

Any suggestions how to do this that isn't so messy?

Thanks.