I’ve been working on the layout in the box.

First I added some plasticard to give a smooth surface for the back scene. It’s curved at one end to mask the corner. The other end is detachable in case I ever want to extend the layout (!)

I posted some photos to the NGRM forum and asked people how to improve the design. There were lots of helpful suggestions. Thanks to everyone for their help.

Option 1. Extend the loop to reduce the impression that the layout is made up of two halves.

Option 2. Some people questioned whether a small narrow gauge line would have invested in a bridge and so much earthworks. Others suggested the exit could be masked by some trees. Here I’ve imagined a flat road and some trees on the far right hand end.

Option 3. Invert the design and remove the bridge to give a narrow gauge feel and create more space.

Option 4. I commented that I found it strange to view the ‘station’ from behind. One suggestion was to invert the design, remove the bridge and place the station to the rear of the layout.

What do I think?

Honestly, I think each design could work.

Extending the loop has made a big difference. It removes the ‘two halves’ look and creates more space. Option 1 and 2 look good. Although I wonder if option 2 will look too flat, it may be difficult to create height differences in the landscape and retain the rail level crossing.

I rather like option 3. I can imagine a green, wooded scenic area at the back of the layout. It would make the layout look much more rural than Option 1.

For Option 4, I can’t quite imagine what the scenery should look like to make this appear realistic.

What do you think?

All suggestions welcome…