I have to say, Peter was great to work with during the design of this layout. The questions which he presented not only filled in blanks which I hadn't even considered or pointed out ways to improve the layout through its entire design. After several failed attempts by me to design a loosely based south Seattle area layout, Peter amazed me. I grew up in the Puget Sound area and he captured the feel of the area like he lived here. Thank you for your time and the great layout you designed for me. Jim B
How poetic. That's almost as ironic as me, decades ago in England, traveling on a train that was involved in a minor collision. At the time I was reading I well known book "Red For Danger" - a history of train crashes in England.
It looks like a lot of fun to operate! You put us right into the picture on that aspect. I hope the customer has some help to build the layout, or is an experienced model railroader. It could take some time to get on its feet. Being a natural worrier, I'm concerned about access to the remote corners of this plan. Looks like a lot of fun!
The client has built layouts before and is confident of his abilities to build this one. There really are no "remote corners" with access problems. It's N-scale so the distances can be deceiving if you're more used to HO-scale proportions. The widest benchwork section is 30" and most are less. I also think this will be a fun layout to operate.
Another very imaginative design - thank you for sharing. Hope you’ll be involved in the construction since it will be so interesting to follow the building; should look stunning when completed.
All of that water-edge stuff should be nice. Contrast that with some of the desert-ish stuff done by California clubs! :-) Hopefully some of the scenery area ends up with big west-coast trees.
As someone who lives in the Seattle area, I hope you are able to finding a spot for the old Rainier Beer building off I-5 by the rail road tracks. It had a huge red R logo on the top of the building which lit and was one of the first things you saw driving I-5 N from tacoma as you got into seattle. It was a Icon in the area.
Yet another quality well thought-out layout - keen to see this come to life. Will you be involved in the build at all? Would love to see whats achievable in N scale.
I quite enjoyed this. In addition to garnering a few ideas regarding track planning I also got a few ideas on how to build and edit my own videos on this topic.
I've shown most of the steps in earlier videos in the Missabe & Western playlist. This is a good idea for an in-depth how-to next time I get an opportunity.
Another well described plan. I wish I planed ( or should say ) COULD HAVE PLANED, my layout as well. In fact I need to change one whole section --- you may be hearing from me --HA!
There's nothing to be ashamed of having to redesign a section of a layout. I have a project coming up soon where I get to redesign part of a layout originally designed by John Armstrong. Perhaps you've heard of him. He is probably the most famous layout designer of all time. There's nothing wrong with his original plan; it's just that the owner has decided that he wants something different. Our ideals often change over time.
Good day Peter.. I would like to say your videos have inspired me to build a new layout but I have a few questions about helixes.. I'm curious when it come to building my bench work if it's best to start on the lower level 1st then build up.. any help or tips would be awsome.. Cheers from Ontario Canada
Yes, you absolutely need to start at the lowest level and work your way up. That doesn't mean that you need to finish each level before starting the next, but before you skip anything you must make certain that you will still be able to access it when the time comes. Where a helix is involved, it is generally best to get that built as soon as possible so that you can use it to get all the other levels correct, making any adjustments that are necessary once you have the finished helix to take measurements from. Ideally, one should have a level foundation on which to build a helix, although sometimes this is not possible. My recent "Missabe & Western" layout build is a good example. Check out the first few installments of that series to see what order I built everything in, bearing in mind that the helix was more complex than most because of the lack of a level platform to build it on. I have another layout build coming up in a few months. That one will be a better example of how to build a helix since the helices in that one are both more conventional. I hope this helps.
@@mpeterll thank you for the information on this.. it's my first attempt at a helix so I'm sure it will be trial and error.. I've been following the build you mentioned and I will go watch the one you just told me about.. cheers and thank you once again..
As always, that's a personal thing for the owner. I generally work on a 20" nominal spacing (allowing for 4" of benchwork and a 16" gap), but I always recommend to the client that he set up some models on adjustable shelving and experiment for himself. In N-scale, or with a narrow upper deck such as here, it doesn't need to be as much.
The car ferry and the dock tracks are part of the Alaskan Railroad. The ferry gets switched by the Union Pacific. www.trainweb.org/ultradomes/features/bargeloading.html
Being in Seattle, your title caught my attention, and once I realized you were not local (unclear if your customer is local or not), decided to do urban hike around Elliott Bay and capture waterfront rail infrastructure to share. Harbor Island actually matches the North harbor extension in your model reasonably well. The link to my video is below: ruclips.net/video/xKRK8YeniSg/видео.html
'H0 scale it's crammed' - nah, mate, that is considered a sizeable room here. People build layouts on 5 feet by 8 feet here and call it a great acomplishment to fit something on it.
I've discussed before what constitutes a "tight" or "cramped" space in layout design, and it has a lot less to do with overall size than with what the client hopes to fit in. I talked about some of the things he wanted to include (second minute, I think). A steel-mill plus double track main carrying long intermodal and unit trains, would have been VERY cramped in this space. My own basement space has over 1000sf of usable space in and around the various obstructions, which is very generous for what I want to build in it, but if wanted to model a multi-track main line with a full division point yard and busy passenger terminal in O-scale, it would be very tight indeed.
@@mpeterll in 1 Gauge even your Space wouldn't house a single line spur. I know where you are coming from and it was not meant as infringement. As I'm not that good with imperial meassurements (we don't use that), I believe that 5.8 meters are, roughly 19 feet So if I calculated that correctly my layout room is 19 feet by 22 feet and 3 inches. (580cm by 680cm). while i only have two mainlines planned, and two stations, it still feels cramped to me, but for the most part there are just the 'slow, local line' and the HSL in the background. some of your design choices influenced how I designed it. and i enjoy every video auf you going through the though process with us. cheers, Sarah
Well I was interested in having you design me a double deck layout in ho with a room similar in size but if it's too cramped for HO it will have to wait a few years then.
@@frankneher9192 It depends on what you want to include in the layout how cramped it would be. I've discussed this exact topic on several occasions before (see my example above).
Hotels arent cheap in that area, thats a huge expense. Another layout with huge helixs'. Hopefully, he'll have a comprehensive computer control to run multiple autonomous trains no doubt.
I have to say, Peter was great to work with during the design of this layout. The questions which he presented not only filled in blanks which I hadn't even considered or pointed out ways to improve the layout through its entire design. After several failed attempts by me to design a loosely based south Seattle area layout, Peter amazed me. I grew up in the Puget Sound area and he captured the feel of the area like he lived here. Thank you for your time and the great layout you designed for me. Jim B
I'm so glad you liked the results. You were great to work with also.
BTW: I've never even been to Seattle, but maps help a lot.
I think some of your comments here should be copied into the videos introduction narrative. It’s wonderful to hear feedback from the customer!
There's alot of interest in your build Stan. Could you post a pic or video of the build as you progress please?
The customer appreciating that makes it all worthwhile great job
Peter, glad to see a new video from you. Hope all is well sir! Enjoy your videos and commentary.
Wow.. another jaw dropping.. what detail.. you are the best at what you do.. thanks for sharing and keep up the great work.. Lance
Thank you very much!
Watched this video as I sit on the Seattle waterfront (at Pier 66). There is a large grain elevator complex on the north side of Elliott Bay.
How poetic. That's almost as ironic as me, decades ago in England, traveling on a train that was involved in a minor collision. At the time I was reading I well known book "Red For Danger" - a history of train crashes in England.
get any sun this week in seattle?
@@step2191 yes, lots. And warmer than usual.
Thank you, for sharing not only what you're doing, but Why you're doing it. 'Tis much appreciated.
You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed it.
As always a great lot of thought was give to this one with lots of good things in it, thanks for sharing Jack 👍👍👍👍👍
Really great seeing another layout design story. I really like watching your process.
Glad you enjoyed it.
thank you for detail video
It looks like a lot of fun to operate! You put us right into the picture on that aspect. I hope the customer has some help to build the layout, or is an experienced model railroader. It could take some time to get on its feet. Being a natural worrier, I'm concerned about access to the remote corners of this plan.
Looks like a lot of fun!
The client has built layouts before and is confident of his abilities to build this one. There really are no "remote corners" with access problems. It's N-scale so the distances can be deceiving if you're more used to HO-scale proportions. The widest benchwork section is 30" and most are less.
I also think this will be a fun layout to operate.
Another very imaginative design - thank you for sharing. Hope you’ll be involved in the construction since it will be so interesting to follow the building; should look stunning when completed.
No I have not been hired to construct this layout. The owner will be doing it himself. Maybe he will publish regular updates for all to see.
All of that water-edge stuff should be nice. Contrast that with some of the desert-ish stuff done by California clubs! :-) Hopefully some of the scenery area ends up with big west-coast trees.
There's plenty of space for trees on the upper deck.
As someone who lives in the Seattle area, I hope you are able to finding a spot for the old Rainier Beer building off I-5 by the rail road tracks. It had a huge red R logo on the top of the building which lit and was one of the first things you saw driving I-5 N from tacoma as you got into seattle. It was a Icon in the area.
You could maybe place the big R and some liquid product in a bar fridge under the layout! 😋
@@gregalanharper That is never a bad idea :-D
@@gregalanharper And dont forget "Lady Rainier". (web search is your friend)
Is she like Lady Liberty’s more fun younger sister? 🍻
Yet another quality well thought-out layout - keen to see this come to life. Will you be involved in the build at all? Would love to see whats achievable in N scale.
There is no expectation of me being involved in the construction.
I quite enjoyed this. In addition to garnering a few ideas regarding track planning I also got a few ideas on how to build and edit my own videos on this topic.
Glad it was useful.
Sir, question would you be able to do a video demonstration of installing the fast track turnouts you use
I've shown most of the steps in earlier videos in the Missabe & Western playlist.
This is a good idea for an in-depth how-to next time I get an opportunity.
Another well described plan. I wish I planed ( or should say ) COULD HAVE PLANED, my layout as well. In fact I need to change one whole section --- you may be hearing from me --HA!
There's nothing to be ashamed of having to redesign a section of a layout. I have a project coming up soon where I get to redesign part of a layout originally designed by John Armstrong. Perhaps you've heard of him. He is probably the most famous layout designer of all time. There's nothing wrong with his original plan; it's just that the owner has decided that he wants something different. Our ideals often change over time.
Good day Peter.. I would like to say your videos have inspired me to build a new layout but I have a few questions about helixes.. I'm curious when it come to building my bench work if it's best to start on the lower level 1st then build up.. any help or tips would be awsome..
Cheers from Ontario Canada
Yes, you absolutely need to start at the lowest level and work your way up. That doesn't mean that you need to finish each level before starting the next, but before you skip anything you must make certain that you will still be able to access it when the time comes.
Where a helix is involved, it is generally best to get that built as soon as possible so that you can use it to get all the other levels correct, making any adjustments that are necessary once you have the finished helix to take measurements from.
Ideally, one should have a level foundation on which to build a helix, although sometimes this is not possible. My recent "Missabe & Western" layout build is a good example. Check out the first few installments of that series to see what order I built everything in, bearing in mind that the helix was more complex than most because of the lack of a level platform to build it on. I have another layout build coming up in a few months. That one will be a better example of how to build a helix since the helices in that one are both more conventional.
I hope this helps.
@@mpeterll thank you for the information on this.. it's my first attempt at a helix so I'm sure it will be trial and error.. I've been following the build you mentioned and I will go watch the one you just told me about.. cheers and thank you once again..
Nice N scale Layout. Bob
Very impressive, as always. One question, what is the spacing between all the decks?
As always, that's a personal thing for the owner. I generally work on a 20" nominal spacing (allowing for 4" of benchwork and a 16" gap), but I always recommend to the client that he set up some models on adjustable shelving and experiment for himself. In N-scale, or with a narrow upper deck such as here, it doesn't need to be as much.
@@mpeterll Thanks for the response, Very helpful. Sorry for the delay in acknowledging, got distracted.
there is a active car float in or near Seattle that goes to Alaska. it is still in use today.
Thank-you for that. Useful to know.
The car ferry and the dock tracks are part of the Alaskan Railroad. The ferry gets switched by the Union Pacific.
www.trainweb.org/ultradomes/features/bargeloading.html
Being in Seattle, your title caught my attention, and once I realized you were not local (unclear if your customer is local or not), decided to do urban hike around Elliott Bay and capture waterfront rail infrastructure to share. Harbor Island actually matches the North harbor extension in your model reasonably well. The link to my video is below:
ruclips.net/video/xKRK8YeniSg/видео.html
'H0 scale it's crammed' - nah, mate, that is considered a sizeable room here. People build layouts on 5 feet by 8 feet here and call it a great acomplishment to fit something on it.
I've discussed before what constitutes a "tight" or "cramped" space in layout design, and it has a lot less to do with overall size than with what the client hopes to fit in. I talked about some of the things he wanted to include (second minute, I think). A steel-mill plus double track main carrying long intermodal and unit trains, would have been VERY cramped in this space. My own basement space has over 1000sf of usable space in and around the various obstructions, which is very generous for what I want to build in it, but if wanted to model a multi-track main line with a full division point yard and busy passenger terminal in O-scale, it would be very tight indeed.
@@mpeterll in 1 Gauge even your Space wouldn't house a single line spur. I know where you are coming from and it was not meant as infringement. As I'm not that good with imperial meassurements (we don't use that), I believe that 5.8 meters are, roughly 19 feet So if I calculated that correctly my layout room is 19 feet by 22 feet and 3 inches. (580cm by 680cm). while i only have two mainlines planned, and two stations, it still feels cramped to me, but for the most part there are just the 'slow, local line' and the HSL in the background.
some of your design choices influenced how I designed it. and i enjoy every video auf you going through the though process with us.
cheers,
Sarah
Well I was interested in having you design me a double deck layout in ho with a room similar in size but if it's too cramped for HO it will have to wait a few years then.
@@frankneher9192 It depends on what you want to include in the layout how cramped it would be. I've discussed this exact topic on several occasions before (see my example above).
Very interesting.
Hotels arent cheap in that area, thats a huge expense. Another layout with huge helixs'. Hopefully, he'll have a comprehensive computer control to run multiple autonomous trains no doubt.
So the helix grade will be about 4%?
No, about 2%.
it's definitely a cramped space for HO scale, as i am finding