That is an extremely miniscule area. But it does meet the minimum prerequisites for a HO model train layout: it's 4' x 8' and that's all you really need to get started. That's a good situation for it though. It's out of the way of most of your main walk ways which is good. It's clean and dry. And it's close to your work bench so you won't have to stomp across the house to get any tools that you left behind. So here are some ideas for making it better:
A solid Model Train Table makes a huge difference:
It is a step up to have an good display space for your track right from the start. You look proficient with your tools so you could probably build the table yourself. There's lots of downsides to building a layout that are permanently tied down to one area. If possible we would like to have a independent display area that we can move as when necessary. Perfect hobby tables can be located by just doing a simple search on the internet. Hobby tables can be put together however you like to realize almost any shape you can dream up. These tables also uncannily put together a sturdy, lightweight and portable construction. This last feature is particularly helpful for model train enthusiasts who want to go to model train get togethers. Also, if you would like to show off your model train layout for educational projects or as part of library/museum exhibitions this is the ideal choice.
Don't try for too much:
Since your location is so limited you will desire to keep it simple. You fundamentally have a choice between three common designs: a straightforward donut shape, a figure 8 or concentric circles. They're all about the same in when it comes to pros and cons. If you love crafting model cities the basic donut shape leaves you the most possibilities. The focus will fall largely on the craft and artwork involved in your accessories. A figure 8 leaves you less space for crafting accessories and farms and places the attention back on your model. Concentric circles can be seen to to be the golden mean between the first two choices. You could place a round house at the center and pretend this is a rail yard. Weathering the locomotives and detailing the roundhouse at the center can really bring this setup together. These are all good first time set ups and none of them shut out any future layout possibilities. The figure 8 is the least conducive to future expansion.
Use the angle of display to conjure a larger sense of space:
A basic device to create a stronger sense of depth is to display your train at an angle so that the diamond head-on view of your HO model train design creates a more intense sense of depth. Paint fading peaks and starry lines along the back walls to further maximize this effect.
Finally, use accessories like structures and uneven terrain to conjure a greater sense of contrast:
Another way we can trick the viewer into thinking that our layout is larger is to add accessories like tiny trees and little hills or piles of pebbles so that the train is at times blocked from sight. If you work this effect right you will really maximize the viewing experience.
Don't think of this first step as the final stop of your model train experience but just as the first step in the journey. As you become more familiar with the joys of model train design, construction and decoration you will find many imaginative new ways to add to this basic design.
A solid Model Train Table makes a huge difference:
It is a step up to have an good display space for your track right from the start. You look proficient with your tools so you could probably build the table yourself. There's lots of downsides to building a layout that are permanently tied down to one area. If possible we would like to have a independent display area that we can move as when necessary. Perfect hobby tables can be located by just doing a simple search on the internet. Hobby tables can be put together however you like to realize almost any shape you can dream up. These tables also uncannily put together a sturdy, lightweight and portable construction. This last feature is particularly helpful for model train enthusiasts who want to go to model train get togethers. Also, if you would like to show off your model train layout for educational projects or as part of library/museum exhibitions this is the ideal choice.
Don't try for too much:
Since your location is so limited you will desire to keep it simple. You fundamentally have a choice between three common designs: a straightforward donut shape, a figure 8 or concentric circles. They're all about the same in when it comes to pros and cons. If you love crafting model cities the basic donut shape leaves you the most possibilities. The focus will fall largely on the craft and artwork involved in your accessories. A figure 8 leaves you less space for crafting accessories and farms and places the attention back on your model. Concentric circles can be seen to to be the golden mean between the first two choices. You could place a round house at the center and pretend this is a rail yard. Weathering the locomotives and detailing the roundhouse at the center can really bring this setup together. These are all good first time set ups and none of them shut out any future layout possibilities. The figure 8 is the least conducive to future expansion.
Use the angle of display to conjure a larger sense of space:
A basic device to create a stronger sense of depth is to display your train at an angle so that the diamond head-on view of your HO model train design creates a more intense sense of depth. Paint fading peaks and starry lines along the back walls to further maximize this effect.
Finally, use accessories like structures and uneven terrain to conjure a greater sense of contrast:
Another way we can trick the viewer into thinking that our layout is larger is to add accessories like tiny trees and little hills or piles of pebbles so that the train is at times blocked from sight. If you work this effect right you will really maximize the viewing experience.
Don't think of this first step as the final stop of your model train experience but just as the first step in the journey. As you become more familiar with the joys of model train design, construction and decoration you will find many imaginative new ways to add to this basic design.