Hi Dave and Bob. Thought I would post this scale drawing of the structure of my layout in the room. At the maximum dimensions the layout is 17’x21’. Looking at the aisles the narrowest spot is 28” except for the very end of the one aisle. Some parts are 32” and the entrance area is 46” to accommodate the swing gate. The room walls follow the outside perimeter of the layout except at the swing gate.
I have been operating the layout for over 2 years now so I can comment on the space. At 28”+ this feels very tight and confining but works for three people operating trains. It is relatively easy for 2 people to pass each other. At max there have been six visitors inside the layout but only I was operating anything. I do not feel 24” would have worked for the aisle width.
One of the reasons this layout arrangement works is there is no control panel of any kind. It runs with Legacy and a comprehensive LCS installation. I have an iPad with the LCS on it for each operator and an iPhone or a Cab2 for each. The control cart is hidden under the peninsula, access is not required for operation. It holds all the transformers and power supplies.
There are 4 indicator panels built into the edge of the layout. These have block occupancy detection, turnout point clearance indication and a redundant turnout position indication for all hidden tracks. The layout has hidden track, reverse loops and a storage yard. Without these operation with hidden tracks would be much harder.
The layout has 4 levels of track but only one place, the peninsula, where it is double decked. The peninsula is 70” wide and the upper deck is 32” wide. The clearance is 12”, exactly as Dave recommends.
I think Bob’s layout looks good, especially with the 3D views. Ultimately the layout needs to match the operating desires of its owner, not us commenters.
