Layout help for small rental – prioritizing dining over living room setup

I'm working with a small rental space (living here until September) and need help figuring out the best functional layout. Currently, the space feels uninhabitable and I'm not sure how to arrange it properly.

Current situation:

• Small space with overhead fluorescent/LED lighting only
• There's a narrow structure along one wall that I don't know how to utilize
• Completely empty right now

My lifestyle/needs:

• I don't watch TV – I'm a reader and want to learn to cook
• Goal is to eventually host small dinner parties (2-4 people)
• This is a rental, so I can't change fixtures or make permanent modifications
• Budget is limited, so I need to prioritize carefully
• The last three pictures are the vibe that I would like to go for

My main questions:

1. Layout: Where should I position a dining table in this space? Should I skip a traditional sofa/TV setup entirely and focus on a dining area?
2. Lighting strategy: The overhead lighting is harsh white fluorescent – it makes the space feel like a laboratory. What's the best approach to layer lighting in a rental? Where should I position floor/table lamps to create better ambient lighting?
3. The narrow structure: Any functional ideas for this? Storage? Display?
4. Priority order: If I'm adding things systematically over the next 9 months with a tight budget, what should I tackle first to make the space functional?

Appreciate any guidance!