Planning

Needless to say I started my planning by surfing the internet. I looked at Youtube, web-sites, anything that could give me inspiration.

I eventually ended up on the Noch site. They have preformed layouts. I compared the HO and N gauge  layouts - eventually I decided that HO would be too big for my house / garage / shed. But I did like the complexity of these layouts. I wasn't interested in running long trains, so their layouts seemed perfect. Soon I started comparing the various N Gauge layouts, and felt the Baden Baden fitted my needs.

I could get the Noch layout - Baden Baden - for A$900. This seemed to break the budget before I even started.

So....... I decided to use the Baden Baden layout as a 'point of inspiration', rather than the end product.

The Idea

After many years of a Garden Railway, I have decided to move inside. With G and HO scale too big, I have settled on an N Gauge Empire.

My thinking has developed to have the following criteria for my plans:

• Complex - A complex layout, not just a couple of loops or a figure 8.
• Long Runs - 
• Small Trains - While not a Thomas type layout, it will not have huge long mining trains.
• Not too many points - To reduce the cost, not to have too many points (switches).
• Simple Scenery - running trains is the motivation, not modelling.
• Moderate Size - Fit into the front window alcove of my living room.
• Moderate Cost - Buy when on special, and watch the pennies.

Now my criteria has been set it is time for planning......