Creative Solutions For A Small N Scale Model Train Layout

In today's video, I'm excited to share the progress and creative solutions for a small N scale layout, something many of you might have forgotten about. It's been nearly a year since I started, and while the drywall in my basement remains unfinished, the drywall in my office is now complete, allowing me to finally focus on my layout. Initially planned as a simple shelf layout, this project has grown into a more ambitious 10x10 foot layout that encompasses the entire room, even crossing the door. Join me as I navigate the challenges of small space layout planning, utilizing budget-friendly and DIY techniques to maximize my model railroad. From track planning to incorporating unique features like lift-out sections, I aim to create a double mainline with various scenic and industrial elements. I'll share my hands-on approach, using leftover and scrap materials to build a functional and aesthetically pleasing train layout without breaking the bank. Your feedback is invaluable, so leave your thoughts in the comments, and let's make this layout the best it can be together!
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[@GoViaorgohome]

A lot more options with N scale in a small space. Can’t wait to see it come together with your building and how you incorporate it. Thanks for sharing

[@MMRails]

Don’t encourage N scale.

[@extra-dry]

Good luck. Make it high enough off the ground (at least 48"), because you will find, you will probably never lift the bridge at the door. Try to turn your door around so it swings out to give you more room.

[@TheyMakeItLikeThat]

It’s mounted at 52” right now 😝

[@tracksidemike]

Hey I’m excited for this build can’t wait Tim plan away my friend start the build

[@TheyMakeItLikeThat]

Thanks brother!

[@thomasboese3793]

A creative solution for a square room. A folded dog bone where the tracks from the left/right side walls not only cross along the back wall but also drop to a lower level, where they pass halfway down/up. You double the overall length and get a place for a hidden staging yard. (underside of the 'front' wall. Where the main focus is.) Yes, it's small and it's nice to see a train come out from point A, work its way around, and disappear at point B. (This is a simple two-level no-lix) I had an older duplex and a room off the kitchen was 7' by 7'. The swinging gate with two levels was an interesting part to build, as both tracks were on a grade. (One up/one down, in the corner). Room for a few tracks of storage on the lower level, and plenty of room for buildings, industry, and an intermodal yard on top. It can be built as a simple folded dog bone or you can add two turnouts and connect the two sides of the top level tracks for simple continuous running on just the top level. Oh, I should tell you that at that time in my life I was modeling in HO, got all of the track down, and the wife and I decided it was time to move. (Funny how a job change and a baby does that.) After 40 years, I still miss the fun and joy it had. John Allen's Time-Saver is nice but I love to see trains run...

[@TheyMakeItLikeThat]

That’s a really good idea. I’m sold on going around the room though. I don’t really want a grade if I can help it. It just makes life easier that way 😝 thanks for the advice though!

[@thomasboese3793]

@@TheyMakeItLikeThat Take a day, set the plan in hard mud, and go for it. The beauty is, as long as you always follow your desires, you can't make a mistake.

[@philhamsher3977]

building flats...you've probably already thought of that but I've seen some very convincing cities built this way. Look forward to seeing "in progress" videos.

[@cpwhiskycreek]

My vote is for backflip. Backflip’s everywhere

[@JamesWHarman]

There's a lot of cases where a railroad goes under a city. In that case, I might suggest adding a rerailer or two because after that's built, it could be difficult to right a derailed train. Plan looks good, though!

[@russrockino-rr0864]

This is so awesome for you, Tim! I want retaining walls with Grafitti. I am so excited for you, Tim. Great video. Thankyou for Sharing!

[@vincenthuying98]

Dear Tim, great vid! Love the scribbled track plan. Think the raised sections on both wider sides are a great idea. It creates the opportunity for some ‘natural’ view blocks and transitions between scenes. The corner lift out may be somewhat of a challenge. A true lift out section might be the best option. Very curious for your next episodes! Cheerio

[@IRONSIDE_RC]

Love the ideas! Can't wait to see it come to life✌️

[@monsvillerailways5736]

Nice one. TT120 is a bit bigger than N but you can still get a lot in a small space. Looks like you've got a good plan. My N scale layout is 4 foot by 2.5 foot. You can fit a lot in a small space with N scale as you say. Happy Modelling

[@TheyMakeItLikeThat]

Thanks so much! I like TT scale, but it’s hard to come by. I’m happy with N scale 😊

[@MMRails]

“Imagine HO scale in a 10x10 layout room” Ya, I can imagine. Lol. Plan looks good Tim, I’m excited for you. Can’t wait to see it come together.

[@TheyMakeItLikeThat]

lol I knew you were gonna catch that 😂

[@OldcampRanch]

Looks like fun 👍🏻

[@HartfordWhaler]

Look forward to seeing more. N scale definitely makes sense in that space.

[@dscglfer40]

I will be doing an elevated city as well. An overpass and a mirror were also in my minds eye plans. An option for your layout can be a brewery/taproom where hoppers, box cars, and maybe the occasional tanker can utilize the siding. A small outdoor patio section can be invented to serve patrons in the tap room. I want to have my siding underneath the city, but I haven't figured out how to do it as of yet. Good luck with your plans, I'll be watching for updates and ideas for my layout.

[@skerbs7755]

Looks cool! I like the idea of the sweeping curves by the intermodal yard. Thank you for sharing this video.

[@joshuadixon1272]

This is great! I just got started on my N scale 10x10 room also. Im doing a dubble main also but mine is like a egg shape with a big yard. Would be awesome to collaborate on our layouts on ideas hahaha

[@kevinjansen2738]

Your main line could be under your city

[@TheyMakeItLikeThat]

I agree. I think I might do that in the back corner. That way the highway can connect to the city. Roads need to make sense, right?

[@brucelong5261]

I do. I want them

[@theodorereading5785]

This is gonna be good sir Looking forward to seeing this

[@DeadlySpoon12]

Why not have the main line go through a portion of your city with industries or a station in the middle? Either way, it sounds like a super fun project!

[@mpetersen6]

N scale vs HO. N does not mean you have to have more track. Yes you can have more siding, industies etc. But you can also have a more natural amount of space between industries. If you want to do a strict point to point that you could do continous run if you want. Metra North Line. Kenosha to Chicago. Terminus to terminus. If viewed from the East side of right of way, Retaining Walls in Kenosha

[@NScaleDystopia]

Perhaps have the wide radius curve that approaches the intermodal section of the layout disappear and reappear under the city altogether