Designs for an N scale shelf layout

[Sandpatch]

I am preparing to start work on my second N-Sale layout. My first layout was okay for my first attempt, but with the thought of this layout being permanent, I want to do it right.

First, I am building this layout in sections, and the first section will be 10'x18", a shelf layout. This section will serve as the primary industrial switching area of the entire layout (which will eventually be an around-the-room and potentially on two levels).

One end of this section will be doubletrack, the other singletrack. The section will be incorporated into a larger layout which will be based on operations. I don't want a switching layout that crams as much tracking into the available space as is possible! I figured at the size (1.5ftx10ft) I'll have plenty of space for a lot of stuff without the thing looking overstuffed!

I have Armstrong's book and Atlas's Right Track and I've given it a go, but I'm just not happy with my design. I don't have any experience designing good track plans and I want a good one for this layout. Further, I don't have any local modelers to help me! :(

So, I am looking for suggestions, tips, examples of what makes a good switching layout. If folks need more info about what I'm trying to do, I can provide that!

TIA! (thanks in advance)

Oh, my previous layout is here:

http://www.angelfire.com/empire/csxnscale/index.html

Andy

[BRJN]

Maybe you should build the section around a Timesaver track plan. This will provide flexibility, and challenge without spaghetti. My own layout will be a Timesaver with a few extra (industrial) spurs.

[der5997]

For a look at what one half of a timesaver can look like go to <www.railimages.com/gallery/JohnWood> If that link just takes you to the first page of albums, go to page 4, and scroll down. The timesaver is the last picture in the John Wood album.
You'll notice brown markings for track in places on the foam board. That's track I decided NOT to build for the very reasons you state.
Have fun.