Well this is a fun thread. I understand what you are talking about and personally I like the idea of an elongated U shape (the elongated part would be the bottom of the U at least 4') with me on the inside. That way I have room to the right and left. On the right it would be room for my coffee and pin cushion, seam ripper and scissors maybe a small cutting matt and rotary cutter as well as a frame size flannel board on an easel to lay my block out on. Oh don't forget that extra light that no matter what we seem to need. Then to the left an ironing board and extra work room. Yes our the back extra space to hold the bulk of our work then I like a removable support on the left to hold the weight of what I am getting ready to sew or quilt when very working on large items. I look forward to seeing your finished table/work area.