There are a number of creative N scale layouts designed for small spaces. There are several websites dedicated to track plans for these. Here's on example: Mini 2'x4' N Scale Plans
Of course, if you did these plans in Z scale track, you'd have a lot more railroad!
Lee
Route of the Alpha Jets www.wmrywesternlines.net
For excellent small and micro-layouts from Z to G scales, this site is tops.
http://www.carendt.com/
Sorry, Firefox won't let me make this an active link.
I tested N scale on a 2x4, I know now I dont want my N scale on that style like a 4x8, I want something better than just the roundy round. Which is why I went shelf style, thats more the proto style.
anybody has room for a shelf layout, and it can even be 2x4. Mine will get long stretches and maybe the ole tehachapi loop treatment. So many model railroad plans put that loop in as its a great way to gain height and it visually interesting.
My first layout was a 2' X 3' portable that I kept under my bed when not in use because of lack of space in the small apartment I was living in at the time. It was a basic oval with a tunnel and had a small town in the middle. I think I had about three or four cheap locos and maybe about twenty cars I kept in a big shoe box. I was really proud of it all...
Tracklayer
I also went with a n scale shelf layout because of space issues, but this kind of layout allows you to still have the floor space. I also have the conventional loop but it's more interesting cause it's so streched out. but it's also setup for some operating if need be.
I have thought about the coffee table layout also, not so much because of space but because that would just be cool to have and the conversation because of it......
Norman....
How about 2'x 3' layout. Carries in trunk of small car with room for a few other things.
A tiny N scale layout can be fun, and can fit just about anywhere.
One caveat, though... 2x4 is the N scale equivalent to the HO 4x8, and has all of the limitations that come along with the 4x8... Tight curves, sharp turnouts, not too much room for scenery, etc. My suggestion is, if you have the room, upsizing to the hollow-core door size really helps open up possibilities.
...but that said, Cox47's layout above looks very well done, working within the 2x4 constraints quite effectively. It can be done, but it's a challenge. Good on you, Cox47!
Modeling the Rio Grande Southern First District circa 1938-1946 in HOn3.