Small Minimalist Living Room with a Paper Lantern

Minimalist rooms depend on lighting to feel warm instead of empty. A large paper lantern gives soft, even light across the whole room for very little cost, and its size makes it a sculptural focal point. Layer it with one small lamp at seat height so evening light comes from two levels. Oak furniture keeps the palette warm against white walls. When a room has only a few pieces, each one needs a generous shape, so choose a lantern at least twenty inches across. Run cords along the wall behind the furniture so nothing breaks the clean lines.