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I just recently finished my basement and I am ready to start construction of my layout. My basement is 35 feet by 26 feet (or so). My plans are two loops in the general shape of an L. I am looking for any tips or suggestions before I begin construction. Thanks!

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Last edited by Cmontagna
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Before commenting on design, it's kind of critical to know construction plans vis-a-vis your basement.  How many sides of your plan will be directly (or nearly) against a wall?  Is that big open area in the middle reserved for something else?  Are there any utilities, floor supports, pipes, etc. to worry about?  It does also help to know how you plan to run your dream.  What are the purposes of those sidings and stubs in the shorter part of the L?  Did you intentionally place that "s" curve in the upper left hand corner to allow for scenery between your climbing track and flat tracks?  Does that mean that scenery is important on your dream layout?

Tell us a little bit more about your dream (I only wish I had your space) and our advice can be a little more useful.

Chuck

Thanks for the tips. I am just getting used to the SCARM software. I've attached a new file and picture. I want to incorporate scenery as much as possible. I like realism in that respect but want to be able to run trains. One of my inspirations is Norm's layout . Not that I expect to get to his level of precision with scenery! 

The majority of cars I have in my roster are modern tank cars, auto racks, passenger cars, and reefers. I don't have a set era of modeling, I have modern diesels and old steamers. 

 

I've added some text to provide more insight. There are two support poles, only 1 could be "problematic" it is located in the bottom left side by the loop around the turntable.

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Chris, I've found it useful to write down my goals for the layout.  If you take a look at the first page of the PRR Panhandle 2.0 thread (in the Photo sub-forum) you'll see what I mean.  At some point, you need to start construction, but adequate pre-planning is extremely important.

BTW, I found under-the-layout storage facilities to be a total PITA.  Of course, your mileage may vary.  You do have a lot of room for one. 

Good luck and keep us informed.

George

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