The general consensus has been that the “average” model railroader possesses limited space for a layout. Often, layouts are crammed into spaces where access is difficult, inconvenient and possibly uncomfortable. That isn't always because of a lack of space; rather it may be due to poor space management.
Please understand that the absolute most critical and important thing about your layout space is YOU, and others—PEOPLE SPACE.
There are three types of space: People Space, Total Area Space and Layout Surface Space. You must coordinate these things effectively in order to maximize the best usage of the limited space.
People Space: Ideally, access around your layout's perimeter and/or aisle-ways should be 36 inches wide at a minimum. That “people space” will allow for two adults to pass by one another with relative ease.
Total Area Space: A relatively “average” area for a layout is approximately a 12 by 12 foot area; which provides 144 square feet of total area.
Layout Surface: Historically, a “standard” for this hobby has been the use of an 8 by 4 layout surface area, which provides 32 square feet of layout surface.
Seemingly, people just can't break away from the thoughts of fitting rectangles of plywood into areas to act as a layout surface. There is the 1st issue—psychological preconditioning. We have had it drilled into our heads for so long now that no one thinks of anything else. We've got to move beyond those beliefs knowing that there are other options available to us as well.
In a 12 by 12 foot area, the options of where to position an 8 by 4 sheet of plywood will be limited. Regardless of placement, this sheet will serve as a sizable roadblock to the goal of maximizing the space. There is a great likelihood that your people space will be significantly compromised; and using that rectangle sheet provides only 32 square feet of layout surface.
Please consider this: divide the 8 by 4 sheet in half: 8 feet long and two feet wide. Take those two pieces and place them around-the-walls in this 12 by 12 square foot area (obtain a second sheet). Start in one corner and fill the area around three of the four walls forming a “U” shape—a two foot wide shelf. The layout surface space has DOUBLED and the people space is large!
An option for those wanting a “continuous” track arrangement whereby the trains could be operated with limited intervention would involve making the “ends” of the “U” shape come away from the walls creating an additional space sufficiently wide enough to support return “loops” of track.
It would be tremendously advantageous for people to gain a better overall understanding of space issues in regard to: people, total area and layout surface, because effectively managing those things will maximize the overall space. In other words, there will be much more space for you and others to enjoy and have fun!
You do have more options other than just placing track on an 8 by 4 surface. Carefully study and consider all options.
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