Imagine the Unit Trains you could Run on a Layout that big !!!!!!!!!!!! What about G-Scale ?? You could then run a Train out side of the Building aswell as the Inside ??? How ever as with all G-Scale Train setups, keeping the Vandals at Bay could create a challenge....
This is one of the most interesting topics I've seen in a while. If it were me, I would form an N-trak club and insist that all members regularly contribute new modules to the effort - the "price of admission" if you will. That way, others could do a lot of the work and you could be king (by virtue of the fact that you owned the space). You might even get away with developing a master plan for a long prototypical stretch in the region and allow members to sign up for specific sections. Quick informal Trainboard poll: How many among us would jump at the chance to be part of an effort like that? I know I would!
I think you've hit the mother lode with this idea! Boxcab E50 [ 04. February 2005, 15:26: Message edited by: BoxcabE50 ]
Just a thought... maybe a model railroad museum? You have walled off classrooms. What about a scale for each room? N scale maybe gets two rooms that are inter-connected. The main hall could be a hobbyshop/gift shop. I suggest you take a few stepps back. You have a big building. Now you need funding and teamwork. This IS too large for one person, but is PERFECT for museum. Look into getting non-profit status. Then look for volenteers and funding. Talk to local hobby shops and see what they say. One of them might even want to relocate to a building like this. Favorable rent plus proximity to a club (in the same building) would be great reasons to move in.
I don't know what your town is like, but artists are always looking for studio space. You could add some exterior doors and rent out some rooms as artist studio's and let them pay for your model railroad habit. Painters and Photographers always need big rooms with higher than normal cielings. I bet the heating bill is going to be murder. My heating bill last month was 230.00$$ I'm thinking of not paying it and moving to Bolivia. I'm still amazed at the thought of having that much living space. You lucky dog.
A little more help with this planning process please. I don't know much about N-trak, but what do N-trakkers do with the modules between train shows? Are they used at home or just put aside till the next show. And if they are built to the right standards, won't one from one club fit on one from another club? Thanks for the terrific ideas so far...The architect is getting anxious for me to come up with my ideas. Dale S.
Are there any AIr Force bases in the area? My wife would kill me for moving there for THAT reason... but...
I don't know what your town is like, but artists are always looking for studio space. You could add some exterior doors and rent out some rooms as artist studio's and let them pay for your model railroad habit. Painters and Photographers always need big rooms with higher than normal cielings. I bet the heating bill is going to be murder. My heating bill last month was 230.00$$ I'm thinking of not paying it and moving to Bolivia. I'm still amazed at the thought of having that much living space. You lucky dog.
You have more than enough room for both. Cost is up to you. Do not depend on lifetime tenants to pay for part of your upkeep, espcially a "club". You may find it a financial strain if they stop paying.
I would suggest that you take a different approach. What do you like to do the most when modeling? If it is detailing, then smaller is better. If it is scenery, design a larger layout with great vistas. I enjoy building models, so I need space to display each project. Realize this is a long term project. Your ideas will change over time. Don't be afraid to rethink/revise your plan if your interests change. Another suggestion...consider David Barrow's domino approach. I see a lot of advantages using that method in "N". And know that most of us are envious of your space! Good luck! TCZephyr
Now that we've touched on the heights, let's explore the depths.... We are all different, and find enjoyment in different ways. I like model railroading as a distraction from my normal life of meeting deadlines, making plans, dealing with all kinds of people, keeping an eye on the bottom line ($$$), etc. etc. To me, all of the suggestions (including my own) would just be more of the same. I would derive more enjoyment and relaxation from a loop of Unitrack and a nice CZ set than a gymnasium full of trouble. But that's just me (and perhaps some others out there). As stated, I would gladly jump on board an effort such as this provided some other poor soul was the "king". I'm more of a minimalist every day, and my small 10 x 12 shelf layout is more than enough to keep me busy and happy. If model railroading ever falls off of my radar, I'll take out exactly 16 bolts, disconnect about 50 electrical connectors and be done with it. Just knowing that keeps the hobby enjoyable. Again; this is just my perspective.
^ Excellent point. The only way I'd ever fill a 40x40 space would be 80% single track main line through scenic vistas, 20% yards and industry. 45" radius is really the minimum prototypical scaled radius, and that will fill a large space quickly.
You have got to be kidding me! I turn my back on this thread for 24 hours and... This is going in the file with the Titan missle silo layout. This may be the best of all time!!
This is to Mr. Blackman and Mr. Hadley. What does Titan Missile silo's and deep caves have to do with my situation? I believe this is a slam to my situation and I can't seem to figure why. I ask for some helpful ideas and get this kind of attitude. I thank everyone that did respond with the good ideas. I don't post much on here but have been a member for a long time and read the new post everyday. I'm sorry I am lucky enough to have this huge building to build my layout and the funds to complete it. I won't post again but if anyone wants to read about my plans as they happen feel free to do so here; http://myweb.cebridge.net/frisco/modelrr.htm Again thanks for the good posts to those that did so. Dale S.
Hi, Dale. I wouldn't take the comments personally. The missile silo comment was followed by a smiley face, which indicates it was meant in jest. And the other remark about the caves struck me as funny too... at least caves maintain a constant temperature pretty much year round... implying it might help with the cooling/heating expenses. Regards
