It does make a big difference if one is running all command vs conventional. A control panel is more important with conventional than command though there is still some reasons with command. The traditional components of a control panel are: Block Control; Switch Control; Accessory control and Transformer/ throttle.
Blocks are sections of track that can be turned off independently from each other even if on the same transformer. Thus, some conventional engines can be running while others are turned off in a block that is turned off. This block system is still needed if one is running a mix of both command and conventional. If running command only this may not be needed for the main lines. In a command environment it can be desirable to turn off sidings as the clock keeps running on some engines and the boards are powered to some extent.
The traditional approach to a control panel is to have a drawing of the layout in a large format somehow painted or applied to a board or Masonite (The budget approach in the old days was auto pin stripping on Masonite). The block controls and switch controls and indicator lights are mounted directly on the drawing at the location of the device. This allows one to very quickly figure out which switch to throw. I find it awkward and slow doing switches from a handheld (but my opinion and I am old), and sometimes the action with several trains running is the need to throw the switch right now. Its awkward to build this with O22 controllers and they can be replaced with switches or push buttons and lights. Z-stuff controllers (Ross) are small enough to be mounted on such panels with planning.
Accessory control includes the buttons for UCS/RCS tracks and specialized controllers for specific accessories. These controllers can be in a central location, but there is often an advantage to have these controls close to the item in small distributed panels. Some sidings too can have distributed block control. I think that mainline blocks, switches and transformers are best in a central location for mainline control in conventional. Some secondary sections of the layout might be controlled from a smaller distributed panel.
Transformers with throttles and controls (whistle, bell) are best in close proximity to block switch panels in conventional, so that it can all be reached. Full command layouts may use only brick type transformer that are out of sight.
Finally there is the cool factor. Control panels are cool. The Tardis panel (Hexagonal in the center of the room), Dr Zarkoffs space ship, The Enterprise bridge. I do agree they can be complex things to build, but worth it.
I recommend a forum search on this subject. There are a number of old threads about how people built their panels. A lot of diverse approaches, some very nicely done.
Bill
