Skip to main content

Based on a recent post, I decided to check out Todd Architectural Models at York yesterday and was happy I did. Doug's line of models is even more impressive in person than online. Having an open section of wall at the back of my layout, Doug's shadow boxes were a perfect fit.

I purchased a two piece 4-story model with a loading dock, and a one piece 3-story model which should fit behind some track:

 

IMG_0887

IMG_0889

Doug said that he had been building architectural models for quite a few years, and that experience certainly carries through to these models. The detail is excellent. The two piece model comes in two halfs with an overlapping column so that the joint appears seamless (in addition, there are small notches at the top capital and at the loading dock so that everything lines up). All the brick details and edges are sharp and definitely stand out. The window mullions are not just simple "sticks", but even they have some little detail.

IMG_0893

The interior structure is also very well thought out. There is a chase running up one side of each section and between each floor of the building which will make running lines for some LED lights very easy (there are also two openings in each "ceiling" for lights).

IMG_0891

I am very pleased with my purchase, and assuming the clearance works with my articulated steamers, I will definitely be adding some additional pieces to my back wall (the model which Doug introduced at York is also impressive).

I do have one regret... I forgot to take a picture of the Barbie Warehouse. Unfortunately, you can't unsee something like that 

Attachments

Images (4)
  • IMG_0887
  • IMG_0889
  • IMG_0893
  • IMG_0891
Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

Paul-

Here's another wrinkle to consider. We are going to develop offset shadowboxes. Each 12" section will be either 1/4", 1/2", 3/4" or 1" deeper on one side compared to the other. For multi-piece sets this would be cumulative. So for a 3-piece set with 1/2" offset, the over all building would be 1" deep on one end and 2-1/2" deep in the other end. We would just need to be clear on which end sticks out more.

Over the last few days, I added LED's to my warehouse shadow boxes and installed them on the layout.

IMG_0902

The Big Boy cleared everything except the right most 40' trailer - have to look for some shorter ones.

I decided to use Woodland Scenics Just Plug lighting system with warm white LED's, and am happy I did. For a techno-peasant such as myself, the system was very easy to use. Interestingly enough, the led's are a perfect fit for the small squares that are in the ceilings of each level of the warehouses. I have two LED's on each floor of each section.

IMG_0909

A little gorilla tape holds the LED perfectly over the small opening. One of the deciding factors in my decision to go with Just Plug was a recent post in another thread on this Forum where someone added two nice buildings to their layout, but felt they were too bright - the ensuing discussion on ways to solve the problem would have gone over my head if I was standing on a ladder!!! Each LED in the Just Plug system has it's own control knob allowing you to adjust the brightness to any level you want.

Definately a few more of these shadow boxes are in my future.

Attachments

Images (2)
  • IMG_0902
  • IMG_0909
ToddModel posted:

Paul-

Here's another wrinkle to consider. We are going to develop offset shadowboxes. Each 12" section will be either 1/4", 1/2", 3/4" or 1" deeper on one side compared to the other. For multi-piece sets this would be cumulative. So for a 3-piece set with 1/2" offset, the over all building would be 1" deep on one end and 2-1/2" deep in the other end. We would just need to be clear on which end sticks out more.

Doug;

As I am sure you know, train people are an aging population, so wrinkles of any variety are NOT something we like to consider  

Luckily, it appears that my articulated engines will clear the shadow boxes with a bit to spare - not sure how I feel about the offset buildings... would have to see one in person.

I was wondering... have you ever considered making either a foot bridge or an arch which could span between two boxes to give the effect of an entrance or a street between the buildings???

 

Add Reply

Post
×
×
×
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×
×