Multiple Scale Layouts

[Anonymous]

I was hoping for some advice. I have multiple scales of trains (O, HO and N) and can't make up my mind about which scale to build my layout in. Each scale has its own advantage. Has anyone on here ever built a multi-level layout? I am thinking I could have 2 decks or levels and that way I could set up 2 of the three scales anyway. Is this a good idea or a bad idea? Or, does anyone have any other ideas? Help. Thanks in advance!!

[Anonymous]

I was wondering about the possibility of setting up the smaller N scale in a background setting with the HO scale in more of a foreground setting. This would form sort of a perspective where the smaller train would appear further away than the larger.

Just a thought I had some time ago. It never went any further than the thought stage.

Darrin

[ericboone]

jdoll,

I think your multi-deck multiscale layout idea is a wonderful idea, especially if you just can not choose a scale. However, I would pick one and make both decks or levels the same scale and have a mainline that is twice as long.

[Anonymous]

You might check some comments in this recent thread:
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=27569

Wayne

[cacole]

I have seen videos on RFD-TV of several layouts, including a moster layout called Entertrainment at the Mall of America, where multiple scales are used for "forced perspective." O on the bottom level, HO in the middle, and N scale on the upper level.

[Anonymous]

Thanks guys. Great suggestions. I guess "forced perspective" makes a whole lot of sense for us. Everyone is saying the same thing, that Forced Perspective looks great. The only challenge is how to integrate all of the scenery, different sized trees, and different sized buildings and people. I guess the same would apply but I have to have enough room on each level to incorporate a little of each on each level for each appropriate scale. Thanks for the encouragement. I believe this is the approach we will take. May be a little complicated but it allows us to have the best of all worlds!!!!!! Thanks for the ideas and encouragement!!!