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Model Train Blog
Ways to make your model railway layout appear larger than it actually is.
One of the most impressive ways of creating the illusion of a model railroad backdrop stretching further than in reality it does is to use the clever method of positioning thin scale model structures against the railway’s background. The model railroading term for such buildings is referred to as “low relief” structures/buildings which display only the frontage, a part of a roof line and a portion of two side walls. So, rather of filling up valuable track real estate space with structures that are 6” or 8” deep, you can build these scale model background buildings to just 1” or 2” deep. When you think about it – doing that could save you heaps of space whilst retaining the illusion these structures are full-sized railway buildings that extend far into the horizon.
You can construct these buildings to HO scale, OO gauge, or to N scale… before positioning them in front of the skyline or a tree-lined background. The trick then is to carefully place some greenery, people, animals, vehicles, or track in front… and you end up with the illusion the scenic features extends deeper than it really does.
This clever railwaying technique is popular with experienced and beginner model railroaders who are pushed for space (aren’t we all), and who want to make their railroad appear larger than in reality it is. This techniques is an absolute space-saver, considering it provides you more room for additional train track, locomotives and rolling stock, or other scenery accessories. And, it is a waste to cut up costly plastic model kits when you can easily download and build these designs yourself… saving money for other projects!
You can construct these scale model railroad buildings to be as strong as you desire by gluing the photo-realistic designs directly onto card, some foam board, corflute, or you can even consider using plywood if you so choose. It’s entirely over to you what material you use in the construction process. And, there is no requirement to purchase paints or learn airbrushing, because with these photo designs that’s already been done for you. So what you are basically getting is full color plans and detailed instructions which are simple to follow.
The railway model buildings available from on this website are ‘photo-realistic’ in quality, and already incorporate fine details such as curtains in the windows, old rusty pipes, some flaky paintwork, greenish mold on concrete, natural cracks in the brickwork… even down to small detailing like products for sale in store windows.
Looking closely at the fine detailing on these scale model building plans you’d easily think they were 100% real as they are so life-like. Best of all; if you download the free catalog you’ll discover there’s a wide range of scale model plans to choose from for HO, N scale, and OO gauge.… and the plans are easy to download, print and then build.