Hmmmm, I do know what you mean about the small house. We measured the top of our house one time, 20x30 feet and did a rough calculation. It comes to what .... 600 sq ft? Our basement is the same dimensions so on paper that gives us 1200 sq ft. But that is totally inaccurate because there is the internal walls, and other obstructions. Stairwell, closets, etc. I figure, SWAG really, that we might have 700 or 800 sq ft useable space.
In that we have all our sewing machines (40+), fabric, other stuff, clothing, etcs. We can't move one thing without having to move another.
So, since you are a certified sewing machine mechanic I just might bug you with a question or two in a day or so if you don't mind.
Joe