I started planning the PRR Panhandle in 2000. I started to build it in our first house in Central PA (Hershey). The basement had the space but was the worst laid out house I've ever seen - massively defective design and very wasteful of space. The original was 22.5' x 10'. We moved to the present house (in Hummelstown) in 2003. I had a smaller but more useful basement. I then went through the process of re-planning it for 18.5' x 10' using RR-Track. Fifty (50) versions later, I had a useable layout. However, it still changes every so often as I re-work an area I don't like or my thinking evolves.
I'll give you the advice I've gotten over the years:
- If you are modeling an area or prototype, study it. Take photos or look at old photos. Do your research.
- Pick out the features you must have (features, buildings, whatever) on the layout. Discard the rest. Don't look back.
- Avoid going for the maximum amount of track. Work on a plan that allows you to run trains, not flip switches or only switch cars (if that's your preference).
- Look at track plans, lots of them. Buy this book: Track Planning for Realistic Operations. Even if you aren't into realistic operations, this will help you plan your layout. http://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/11/t/215406.aspx
Best of luck,
George
