I understand exactly what you mean. For a while I had sewing machines set up in my bedroom and that just didn't work well for me because I hated the isolation. Now I have a sewing room that is at the top of the stairs of our open concept home. I can be in there and hear what my husband is watching on TV. We can actually talk to one another without much trouble. He says, "Hey Babe, come look at this, " and I just step out into the loft and look over the rail.
The other advantage is that the mess is contained. But, there are disadvantages. I feel terrible this morning and just haven't managed to drag myself in there. I haven't set up in the DR since we moved to this house and I seriously doubt I would on our current table but I do still use my bar for cutting out clothing. It is the best cutting table EVER.