Bufferstop wrote:...The use of multiple levels was definitely above average.
I don't believe it can be said often enough, that the moment a layout builder makes provision for the 'land surface' of the layout to fall significantly below the track level, makes a step change in realism. A significant vertical aspect to the scene is very effective in making a confined space look larger, so it matters as much on small layouts where the temptation is to go for the simple plane baseboard. For large layouts, the cost saving of the 'open top' method already mentioned above (some years ago!) provides this ability to have the scenery go down as well as up relative to the track base quite naturally.
This is not so easy for exhibition layouts, where volume considerations become very significant for transport. The first time I saw a home layout with scenery extending vertically eight feet (3 feet below track level to 5 feet above) the effect was truly stunning. Roughly 700 feet in HO, quite modest for the 12,000 ft range of the mountainous setting! So effective in making the train look 'small' against the surrounding wilderness.
