Basement Pole Idea

[FJ and G]

Some are forever trying to hide the basement pole.

For those who've visited Crystal City VA (near Pentagon), there's a rat's maze of underground tunnels connecting subways, shops, etc.

In one tunnel, there's a nature mural on the walls.

In the center of the tunnel is a pole that supports the above structure. The builders erected a round chase around it. They've taken the wall mural theme and painted the chase (about 3 or 4 feet in diameter).

It looks pretty cool and blends in so well with the wall that you have to be careful and aware that it is there.

Same could be done w/train room. 1/4" drywall will bend but probably not enough for the round chase. Masonite would as well up to a point.

So, you are on your own as to what material would bend around (linoleum?).

The supporting chase would be made w/normal 2X4 construction, perhaps modified slightly.

Hope this helps someone

[cnw1995]

Dave, I've seen some similar 'fixes' - in one instance, a flexible piece of plastic with a mirror-finish was tamped around the pole - it gave a sort of fun-house reflective effect but caused the pole to 'disappear.

[fjerome]

this could have been a much more interesting topic. not train-related, but interesting.

[:D]

[cnw1995]

This has come up in some related ways before. I like thinking about how to use mirrors, lighting - remember the thread Dave started about ...'sideways lighting' - and scenery to make layouts seem larger or to evoke a particular mood.

For example, I have looked recently at plastic wrapping with reflecting mirrored surfaces. It was interesting to see the different ways this could be cut or rolled or curved to make different effects. The trade-off is the reflection isn't as high-quality as a true mirror.

[jonadel]

Of course there had to be a pipe right where I wanted to put in a mountain. We kind of got it worked out but it sure is an eyesore.

Jon

[FJ and G]

Forrest,

funny you said that. Coincidentally I was riding Metro yesterday and complainning about lack of any strap hangars like they had in NY in old subways.

I said at least they got these poles you can dance around on

I'll refrain from the rest of it as there are kids on the forum

Doug,

I'll try to get some pictures of side lighting. It'll wow ya.

Gotta run soon to get my VRE express train