CCMR Train Talk #1: Four Small Layout Features That Work

Small layouts like CCMR are great for beginners, but visual interest can also a challenge, particularly when we model flat places like Chicago! Here are four features of CCMR that help make it visually and operationally appealing, even within a small 3' x 7' footprint.

[matt_anita-janeadventures]

This is one of those layouts that just got everything right. Simply amazing considering its size.

[RonMontagueSWRR]

I still think this is the coolest layout. It's functional and well though out.

[markrabenold]

This may be (as you stated) your "first layout", but based on the design elements you've used, the quality of your scenery applications, and the professional and entertaining video you've created, I'm guessing you're either an artist, a photographer, or someone who works in a design-oriented type of profession. I wish all model railroad videos were as interesting and enjoyable to watch as your video was. I also enjoyed your calming and educational narration style. Thanks very much for sharing your creativity with other rail enthusiasts like myself!

[TravelinginMiniature]

Your comments on view blocks is spot on. It creates the illusion that the layout is bigger than it is by breaking up the amount of layout you can see at one time. One way to increase the illusion is to increase the layout height.

[ChrisStaller]

The design language of this layout, from the angle industry, vs head on to the front of the layout, to the way trains weave in and out of scenery is amazing. Very very well done!

[TheGra]

This has got to be one of the most interesting, useful and thought-provoking model railway videos I've seen here on yt. Should be a must see for anyone at the layout planning stage.

[xlayout]

Good points. I also concluded my tiny layout must be a series of small dioramas. Lots of "bowl of spaghetti" track from above, but view blocks make the difference. More than one visitor commented, "there's a lot going on here, " once they looked around for a while. Beautiful work!

[dannyjones]

Damn for a first layout- you knocked it outta the park! Scenery, weathering, such attention to detail. It's gorgeous!

[Gary-fjbn]

It is the best small model railroad I have ever seen. Thanks

[mikepavelich]

Great video! Not only can’t I believe this layout is N scale, but that it’s also your first attempt! Really like how you’ve captured the essence of Chicago. I plan on modeling CNW and Metra too…looking forward to Train Talk 2!

[douglasboyle]

There is something in this video clip which draws my attention and holds it to the end. You have done a wonderful job of putting together a functioning layout in a small space. In short I loved it. Looking forward to the next video.

[pacificcoastminiatures]

Love this track plan! And the details and scenes are amazing! I'm trying to do the same with my N scale layout - basically having a collection of dioramas with their own unique stories.

[gordongreaves]

This is a very helpful video! I was frustrated with most planning videos because i couldn't see how the plan related to the finished product, and I wasn't sure which features were useful and which ones were not. I kept making the typical error of trying to do too much with too little. Your plan ideas were great! Thanks for sharing them! I have now subscribed to your channel!

[chicagolandrailroader]

There's something to be said about how some people say "trains shouldn't be everywhere on a layout" but you have trains everywhere and it works, because this is Chicago!

[hadynmcloughlin]

Have just started my first N gauge layout and like the idea of the 'scenic focus'. Even though mine is a tiny loop with one siding for shunting lots of ideas to take on board. Thanks for sharing your design. New year, new ideas!

[Vaderdk]

Just love your layout. It has a high degree of what I call nooks and crannies. Tracks heading off at odd angles to mysterious destinations which are obscured by those strategically placed buildings. Even your main line is unpredictable. As I’ve commented before that scrap yard is a favorite of mine and don’t get me started on that bridge spanning the main feature of your layout, the Chicago river which neatly bisects it all. So well done and the only layout I follow that actually looks finished. Can’t say enough. Kudos.

[LeeFKoch]

I love all the attention to detail, from weathering/ageing buildings and rolling stock, to lighting and landscaping, even the trains running at scale speed.

[bebopcats]

When I first saw the track plan I thought that there is far too much track. However you did a masterful job of using view blocks to divide the layout in to scenes and hide the track. The river in the middle of your layout looks great and also helps to define scenes. Your scenery work and attention to detail is better than some of the club layouts I have seen on Youtube. Incredible layout!

[ducatifriedrich]

What he said: "This is one of those layouts that just got everything right. Simply amazing considering its size." Never saw a better one at this size.

[baldypalmsrailroad]

What a great layout. From the intricate details of your scenery to the weathering of your rollingstock what a fine job for a beginner well done 🙌🚂👍