I was just thinking if it would be a good idea to build a small layout in a closet because in a closet in wouldn’t take up all the area in my bedroom. So guys what do you think?
-nedarb
How big is the closet?
There are lots of interesting ways to get useful space in a bedroom - under a bed, above a bed, fold-up, shelf type (around the room or just along one wall), above a desk, as a shelf on a bookcase, etc, etc.
Andrew
Maybe you can sleep in the closet?
Just joking [:D]
I think the things masonjar suggested is right on the spot! I would go for a layout around the room, you don’t need much space if you do it right. Maybe you can build it like an incline with mountain scenery and tunnels around the room. A couple of laps around the room will give you a pretty long way for you trains to run. And maybe you can have a mine at the top or something.
If the space is enough for you (if HO and not walk-in closet, it will be very limited), I think it’s a valid option. But you have to consider lighting and power access in that small confined space. And you have to consider how permanent you want the layout in that space when building it (as in, do you want to take it out regularly, on occasion, or expect to have to take the whole thing to pieces to remove it). Access when building the layout will be very awkward at times (unless you build it so that it is easily removable for working on it).
As far as operating and viewing, it will only be from one side, and while this has it’s pluses and minuses for scenery, you have to consider how convenient accessing certain portions of the layout is when choosing a track plan.
Another thing to consider is that it will be difficult for another person to view the layout at the same time. For some of us, that’s not really an issue, because such a little layout is for ourselves, and not intended for regular public viewings. But for others, that may be an issue.
—jps
Have you looked into around the room ABOVE the door. many years ago i did that with Lionel trains, stood on a milk crate to run them. i think the shelf was 12" wide, that was over 40 years ago. Just my $.02