How do you guys see your railroad when it is above the door facing? Do you wear stilts? I've got the same problem, but I have designed an around-the-walls layout supported by triangular gussets from the wall studs that supports the railroad at about the level of the light switch. The width of the layout will vary from a minimum of about 9" to 18" at the yard. Over the entrance door and closet, I plan to have drop-in sections, otherwise the sections will be permanently mounted to the gussets on the studs of the walls. The elevation is high enough that furniture will easily fit under it, and the width is such that it does not significantly intrude into the room. When you are standing in a room, notice how close you get to the walls. You'll be surprised that you tend to stay at least 12" - 18" from the walls, but usually quite a bit further. Therefore, the width should not be a problem, and the height makes it possible for adults to view at a "normal" level.
Yes, my scenes won't be very deep, but at least I'll get to run my trains. By the way, I plan to build the railroad in sections that can be taken out easily to be worked on in the garage. Minimizes the mess in the train room.
Mark C.
