Abundant natural lighting from two east-facing windows can be controlled by adjusting the shades top down or from bottom up. Recessed spot lighting in four ceiling positions concentrate light over four corners of the table and the diffuser in the ceiling chandelier provides ambient lighting-all have dimmer switches for maximum control. Walls, switchplates and floor contrast with each other and with the table, while place settings in black and white plus color are used to define edges of plates, utensils, glassware and placemats/napkins. Use of textured, solid color/ minimal pattern add interest, define surfaces while limiting visual clutter.

1. Choose two fabrics - cotton works well. One a print, one solid color. Here I've used one cotton calico and one heavy weight textured cotton. Press both fabrics so there are no wrinkles. Lay the print fabric right side up on the cutting table. Lay the Solid color fabric right side down on top of the print fabric. 2. Use an oval plastic or other place mat as a pattern. Trace around the plastic mat. This will be the sewing line.