Each Ichiyo demonstrator presented their arrangement displayed in a 3-panel mock "tokonoma" with a two-dimensional art image attached to represent a painted scroll, calligraphy or other chosen art. They explained their material choices and the relation between their ikebana and the image and remarked on where ikebana is displayed in their own homes. Following the presentation, workshop participants prepared their own tokonoma arrangement.

Historically, in traditional Japanese homes ikebana was placed in the tokonoma, a small alcove with a slightly raised floor. The literal translation of tokonoma is "place of honor". It might be considered to be the highest level of display because it separates art from the active daily living of family life and gives it a place to be viewed without any distractions. Traditionally, nageire style arrangements are simple and natural using nageire containers or baskets, and are in the best of taste. Today's ikebana arrangements were free style following classical traditions.