I think I would look into motorizing the windows so that you could open and close them remotely without having to do anything to the layout.
Hornblower
Of the two layout rooms I've had, both in basements, one had a window which I covered-over from the inside with 2" blue styrofoam and plywood. The second one was a purpose-built room with no windows at all: I have very large windows in the rest of the house, but don't need or want windows in my train room. I prefer total control of the lighting, and because it's well-insulated, there's never been a need for heating or cooling, and therefore no dust from external sources. This ensures very little need for track cleaning, unless I've recently ballasted track or added scenic effects near to the track.
When I tear it down to move elsewhere, the new owners can add windows if they wish, but for me they're a must-not-have feature for layout rooms as far as I'm concerned.If I wish to do train photos in natural light, I'd do so with easily-portable dioramas.
Wayne
This works for me. I can still open them by unlatching them below the benchwork. I also can clean them reaching above and below.
Brent
"All of the world's problems are the result of the difference between how we think and how the world works."
No, not MS Windows. Real ones. Currently involved in layout planning (HO) for move to a new house with typical bonus room space above garage - about 14' x 18' usable. Now, to make best use of this area I would like to run a portion of the around the wall portion of the layout along an exterior wall with side by side double hung windows right in the middle.
Wondering what is the best benchwork / backdrop treatment to go by / in front of the windows but yet allow access to them to open for ventilation as needed as well as letting a reasonable amount of light in? A bridge? A mountain? An industrial scene with just buildings and structures? Perhaps put a yard there?
Any suggestions or real life solutions to a similar situation appreciated. Thanks, Geoff