The Guild Manual has a section on Layout Design

Layout design starts here, with a list of questions to ask yourself about the intended layout: where it is to be located, how you will access it, your budget, time and skills available, and so on. Time spent thinking out all aspects of the layout at the beginning will save time in the long run and reduce the risk of disappointment.

Layouts fall into a number of generic types (your ideas are unlikely to be completely original, and all the better for that), and there are trackwork features common to many layouts. To assist with designing the track layout there are many published plans, prototype track plans, and software packages for layout planning (and in some cases, for turnout design also).

Knowing the size of trackwork and track features is critical to the train lengths, rolling stock provisions and requirements, and the operational pattern of the layout.

Turnouts (points and crossings) are a key part of any trackwork layout. The choices are to use proprietary track sections, build it yourself using commercial components, or build it entirely from scratch.

Portable layouts require some additional considerations: the size and number of sections, how they will be transported, and the interfaces between sections to provide track and electrical continuity.

Garden railways require a different approach to baseboard design and construction, but the design and layout of the trackwork shares much with indoor railways.

When you have decided on the criteria of your proposed layout, there is much help on the detail of design for the baseboards or foundations.

• The Gazette archive by searching Baseboards brings up much information.
• The Guild Forum has some discussion on baseboards
• Youtube by searching Model railway baseboards brings up vast amounts of help on how to make your baseboards, etc.
• Peco Publications booklets.
• There are companies who will manufacture baseboards, tailor made to your requirements by searching the Gazette product directory. Also at local groups there may be members who can help or will make baseboards for you.

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