Finally starting my new layout since building my house. Built a basement just for my layout. However, I want to start with a small display layout so that I can get my Dad (76 years old) and my son (10 years old) doing trains together. The goal of this layout is two run our scale trains on the bottom level, and have a postwar Lionel type layout on top. The layout is 8' x 12' on the bottom level. The bottom level is 2' wide all the way around with the middle cut out. The upper postwar layout is kinda up in the air on what size it will be. Right now I am thinking a 4' x 8" yard that covers the one end of the layout, and a 4' wide section down the middle that angles off to one corner. I will have an access hole, that I think will remain open in the middle. My son loves to stand in the middle and watch them go around him. I designed the base to display some of our collection on the shelves while the corners will hold the electronics. I will have a standard gauge loop on the bottom shelf and the upper shelf I may have a trolley and operating stationary yard for what accessories I can't fit on the yard on top. The shelves are 16" deep, 8' long on main side, 4' long on ends. The corner "cabinets" are 20" x 20". I plan on putting LED lights above the shelves to illuminate them, and the cabinets will eventually get doors. For interior access, I will have a removable shelf and back panel (you can see in some of the pictures). This will stay off until things are complete. I plan on using Gargraves track for the scale level, and probably but not sure using tubular on the postwar levels. As stated in title, need suggestions on track plans for the yard and I am up for any suggestions on layout, shelf layout, and anything else. I might be slow to respond due to my work, so please be patient with me. I would also like any suggestions on how to deaden the noise. I know that's very opinion based. I have so far thought about using a 1/2" unfaced cellulose foam board with sound barrier from Lowes, with 1" foam board on top of that. I have not bent gargraves before and need to know how to screw/glue/tie wrap the track down with out transmitting sound. Let me know what you guys think and thanks in advance for your advice and suggestions.
I have included:
the scarm file, - please make any suggestions, main thing, I want to display and use the postwar Lionel operating accessories. I have most of them.
Layout base pictures (please excuse the mess and yes the basement is unfinished, but it is dehumidified. I will get to finishing that in a few years.)
Since this is my first major post, please let me know if I need to do anything different with uploads, correct forum, etc.
