Category: Layouts

N scale coffee table layouts are the best solution for small space layouts. For model railroaders that don’t have enough space for a full size layout, using a coffee table for a model train layout can be an excellent alternative. 

Despite the small size, n scale coffee table layouts can smoothly run trains. The only major limitation is the amount of model train scenery that can be added due to the space limitations.

N scale coffee table layouts are typically constructed from scratch. There’s a few commercial furniture vendors that sell track plans specifically for coffee table layouts. 

Let’s review several examples of N scale coffee table layouts that you can use as ideas when building your own version.

N Scale Coffee Table Track Plan

This N scale coffee table track plan consists of a simple double oval Kato track. It has a double crossover loop that allows two locomotives to run at the same time. It also has an incline that is quite steep but the gradient angle is low enough to allow the engines to climb it without any issue.

Coffee Table Layout under Glass

The first thing you need to work out is how to lift the coffee table glass to actually reach the model trains. Derailments can happen when someone bumps into the coffee table or if the operator switches track too quickly and derails the locomotives. It’s important to be prepared for this to happen and be able to gently lift the glass without much difficulty.

Table Open Layout

Here’s an example of an open layout plan without a glass covering. It allows for much easier accessibility than coffee table under glass. It also requires more cleaning of the trackwork due to the open exposure. Try to avoid placing the coffee table in a high traffic area because the tracks will get dirty and your trains have a high chance of derailing.

2 by 4 N Scale Coffee Table Layout

The popularity of N scales lies primarily in their compact size and how easy it is for model trains to maneuver through them. But like most scales, it also leaves you with ample room for landscaping. In this image, you can see that the modeler managed to fill out their N scale with gorgeous structures, vehicles, and scenery. The buildings, the trucks, and the bridges all contribute to the layout’s realism. 

Pre-built Layout Design

Some like to build layouts from scratch, while others enjoy adding pre-built kits like this Mountain Valley Scenery Kit. This kit includes everything you see in the image except for the train tracks, buildings, and vehicles. At first glance, you can already tell the benefit of purchasing professionally built kits. The majestic mountains look life-like with their naturally colored greenery. Grab this one for yourself and add a blue sky background to make it look even more real.

Completed N Scale Coffee Table Layout

The beauty of coffee table layouts is that their size forces model railroaders to be more creative in maximizing the space. Although the model railroad in this image is smaller than most, it’s impressive that the modeler was able to fit two mountains and three structures in it. The color of the structures and trees could be better but at least it makes up for it with the picturesque mountains and the realistic ballast.

There are plenty of factors to consider when building N scale mountain layout plans. Two main factors for a mountain train layout are the benchwork and track plan. The size of the benchwork and the design of the track plan will determine if your layout is functional and realistic., 

Building an N scale mountain layout can be a difficult task, especially for beginners. Luckily, plenty of model train enthusiasts out there are more than happy to share the fruits of their labor for inspiration. 

From the material you can use to create stunning landscapes to tips for maintaining realism, here are three great examples of N scale mountain layout plans that you can learn from.

N Scale Model Layout of a Town with Mountains

This N scale mountain layout uses a lot of insulation to create a picturesque landscape. Sitting on top of the tunnel is an inch of insulation with a second layer in the middle section. Luckily, there was enough leftover for two mountains. Thanks to the meticulous paint job, the image almost looks like a photograph of a real tunnel and mountain beside a small town.

Spacious 4×8 N Scale Mountain Layout with Plywood Base

The owner of this HO scale layout maximized their 4×8 plywood base. This portion of the track alone already has a lot on display. There’s the bridge next to the rows of buildings, a bustling street, and a waterfall flowing into blue-green waters. The placement of the buildings and roads is different from what the owner originally planned. Luckily, they still managed to produce a memorable track.

Small Tunnels on a Mountain Layout

A great way to maintain realism in your N scale layout is to build tunnels. This hides your model train as it crosses the landscape, like how the owner designed the layout in the image. Building tunnels can be as simple or complicated as you want with material like Styrofoam and plaster cast. If you want to save time and effort, you can also purchase one that’s already built.