Layout Design Block/Big Ask

Tim,

Personally, I can't visualize your space (or any objects you have to build around) from the description you provide.  May I suggest you download the SCARM program (http://www.scarm.info/index.php?page=download) to at least provide a drawing of the available space with interfering objects (utilities, windows, doors, closets, etc.) also identified.  Then, I think you may get more help than you have so far.

Chuck

Tim,

Your description mentioned two East walls, so I assumed one was supposed to be West and this is what I came up with for your space. I also recommend you download SCARM, but that assumes you want to take a starting point and add to it yourself. The 2nd image is an example of what you'd get using the American Flyer S library in SCARM. I'm not familiar with S scale, but it looks like track options are very limited.

HI,

Just downloaded SCARM, I'll try to figure it out....

Meanwhile, I have one end of a basement to work with.  No obstructions, just one rectangular end of a 12x26 room.  I just reread my post and realized I have made a mistake in the description...sorry.

The door into the space (on the WEST wall, my bad) is 8' from the North wall (12').  In other words I have an 8x12' space that could be expanded 4-6' longer on the East side.  The South side of the space is open to the rest of the room (washer/dryer, utilities, storage etc.).

Thanks

Tim

Updated the photos I posted and added the SCARM file.

Thanks Dave, certainly helps me to see the space.  Any SCARM tutorials you recommend?

Well, to get an idea of a similar space, you can look at what I'm doing in 10'x13'x11' here.

I never really went through the tutorials because I had previous software experience with XTrkCAD and RR-Track. But if I were starting from scratch, I'd start with Tutorial 01 and go from there. You can also go to YouTube and just search for "SCARM" and view the ones that interest you.

Once you're familiar with the commands, you need to decide how you want to use the space. If you decide to use a horseshoe like in the example I posted, you'll need to modify it. As it is now, you'll have problems reaching a lot of tracks. It's common practice to limit the distance you have to reach to 30"-36", so it would have to be more like the enclosed photo.

The biggest problem I see is the limited track selection, so it's really important to work with the American Flyer track library. As you can see, I added some turnouts, but with only 2 sizes to choose from, there are only so many configurations that will work and even these don't completely join up, so you either have to cut custom lengths or hope there is enough flex for things to connect.

In any event, there are folks here who will help.

HI,

We've pretty much decided to move to the cottage and the back half of the basement is almost ready for paint.  The dimensions above are still accurate - I'm considering and around the wall style with wider sections at each end of the U ( I can access from 3 sides).  

A while back Aflyer posted the attached plan, I'm wondering how it would translate into S Helper track.  I have a fair amount and all radius curves available.  And no, I never did make any progress with SCARM.

Except for some trim, the train room area is finished!  And I have spousal approval to use the space.  

the wall with the blue tape in the left of the photo is 8' to the angle, the back wall is 12' and I can extend on the right 10-14'.  The question is, should I try something like this plan;

Or something with a lift-out bridge that takes this idea and goes around the room?  This is S gauge and I will be using S Helper track, switches and modified AF switches.

Thanks

Tim