Commission: Compact O gauge micro layout…
O scale is becoming increasingly popular, helped by the number of smaller locomotives now available with matching price tags. When an O gauge shunter is little more than a OO example it is clear why people are intrigued by the scale…
This latest layout design commission explored the concept of a ‘Paxton Road’ in O gauge - a blank-ish canvas with operational potential but the ability to enjoy different models in a realistic setting.
The problem with O in this instance was the increased physical size, for whilst the available space would have worked with a OO gauge Paxton Road a slightly different approach was needed for O. Exploring different ideas and arrangements it struck me that the cassette area could be partially scenic, giving a little more breathing room.
A semi-industrial setting in this instance gave the opportunity for both a BR shunter and stock shuffling in and out of a general yard - as well as interchange with a private customer, an industrial siding with its own diminutive shunter. This echoed memories and life experience with my customer, providing him with a layout that both would fit his modelling room and allow a balanced scope, challenge and construction.
If you’d like to work with me to develop your own project the Layout Design Brief is a guided collaborative process, you can read some of my previous customer experiences on the ‘Commissions’ page. I often find customers, even those with a fairly fixed idea, get a great deal from the experience - beyond the obvious design and illustration. I have capacity to take on new commissions to begin in 2027, get in touch to reserve your space, via the contact form, Facebook page or email. Until next time, more soon…
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Set that in North America and you could replace the pipe gantry with a sliding traverser disguised as a car float.
ReplyDeleteYes, perhaps? Although the typical US switcher is perhaps a little longer? Unless we’re talking very small GE 25t or 44t at a push?
DeleteAnother great plan James! It's not only the length of the US locos to consider - I've just measured a couple of my bits and a 40ft freight car is 1ft, so much more than a UK 4 wheel wagon.
DeleteThe plan would work perfectly though with some of these and my 44t if the main board was extended to 1500mm / 5ft. Mmmm....!!
Morning James,
ReplyDeleteSome great little plans there. I've found the Heljan Ruston DS48 really useful on my O gauge project. It's a massive jump up from my usual N gauge but I've found the slow pace very mindful. I'd love to see the bottom plan built! Take care.
Thanks Tom. Yes, the bottom plan would be very compact, I think my customer is going for the top one and hoping to enclose it in a box - although I wonder if that might be a bit ambitious with 0!
DeleteThat "inlaid tracks" view would make quite the model!
ReplyDelete