It's kinda hard to tell what the space actually offers as far as lighting, but...
If you don't want to do anything like removing the existing fluorescents, you can "drape" thin, fire safe fabrics from the ceiling, over the fixtures (leaving sufficient space) which work well providing you find a suitable material.
You can make a quilted, pillow-like pattern and additionally hang some well placed acoustic clouds to make for a nice space.
Add floor lamps to taste.
I have done this in rehearsal spaces to satisfying and safe results.