I have about 6 inches on the base table, but then I have a little piece which is about another 6 inches,that flips up, so 1 foot all together. I use it for my drink, my pins, my notion carrier, scissors and any sewn but waiting to be pressed pieces that I've clipped off my chain.
On on the left I have a lot of space. When I pull out the top drawer I can cover it with anither piece made for that purpose so I'm essentially sitting inside an "L" to sew. This gives me lots of space to spread out whatever im working on. I also have a lot of space behind,the machine because another wing in back flips up.