In October 2024 I picked up on my train hobby again by starting yet my next layout. Hopefully this time it will be my final layout, and I could build it to completion. Unlike my last layout that was in a room about twice the size as this one, I am now going to build my train room and layout with a different approach as I usually have done.
So, my train room is located in one of the two small bedrooms in my house. Small is still about 12.5 x 12.5 feet (3.8 x 3.8 meter) though. It is my intention to have a one-point viewing area in the entry way, as soon as one enters the room. There is a small entry way where people can stay and view the trains. Most of the entire layout will be seen from here.
The layout will be on a slight grade going upwards in the back, viewed from the front entry way, to be able to see more of the layout details that usually are flat, creating sort of an optical illusion.
Next to the main layout I am also making a 15 inch (38 centimeter) deep diorama kind of layout, which is underneath the main layout, within the same frame of the table. The only drawback is that it’s a bit low from the ground, but I have to take it for what it is.
Behind the little entry way is a closet that I convert to a bookcase and control center, it’s only 2 x 8 feet (66 x 244 centimeter) but just big enough for its purpose.
Train room seen from the entry way, aka right at the door to the room.
Train room seen from the opposite side, the dark painted closet will be the bookcase and control area.
All of my Dutch trains, scenery and accessories boxed up and hopefully still in good shape. Most are from 1984 – 1988.
One large panel with 9 homemade “S88” decoders, still from my previous layout, that will be placed underneath the table against a wall.
The cables and wiring from the control center to the layout are hidden behind this wooden box. Behind this box is a 2 x 3-inch (5 x 7.5 centimeter) aluminium channel where the cables are feed trough, so they will not be visible.
The shelfing for the computers, monitors and analog powerpacks. The DCC digital power booster will be placed underneath the layout.
The entry way viewed towards the window. The layout table/framework is paneled in to have the appearance of coming out of the wall and to have a large window to view the layout from.
The entry way viewed towards the door. The layout table/framework is paneled in to have the appearance of coming out of the wall and to have a large window to view the layout from.
To be continued.
