Model train layouts come in different shapes and sizes, and here we present to you a few model train layouts that are as small as coffee tables. These are excellent examples for anyone who plans to build a train layout, but is trying to make it as small as possible in order to save space at home.
N scale train layouts are gaining popularity because you can maximize smaller spaces to create a more expansive layout. That is why coffee tables make the perfect choice for this kind of layout. You can be as realistic with your model train layout as your creativity will allow but also save space at home. Moreover, you don’t need to build a platform from scratch because you can utilize the coffee table as your starting point.
The owners decided to use the popular N scale layout here, and it looks like it is a great one to use for a coffee table. Despite their small sizes, the layouts can smoothly run the trains just as well as larger layouts can. Clearly, the size also comes with limitations when it comes to designing the landscape. But, as you will see below, the owners of the did not let that limitation get in the way of their creativity.
Take a look at all the photos for inspiration for your own coffee table-sized N scale layout!
N Scale Layout on Coffee Table Overview
Impressively, this whole unit was made at home, including the table. Trees and houses fill out the landscape of this layout which can smoothly run two trains as well as an additional train along the siding.
Coffee Table Train Layout with Background
This coffee table layout includes backgrounds of mountains and buildings. A road and a couple of vehicles run near the center of the layout and scattered trees of different types. At the left is a house with a row of cars parked beside it.
Detailed Model Train Layout on a Coffee Table
From this angle, you can see how well a coffee table layout can fit inside a room. If you look closely, you’ll notice how the trees were made so realistically. With only two houses and a couple of trees surrounding them, the landscape for this layout is more minimalistic than the ones we’ve seen.
N Scale Model Railroad Layout on Coffee Table
This layout idea is a good source of inspiration if you are building a model railroad layout for n gauge trains. Considering the size of this n scale coffee table layout, it is impressive how there is such a level of detail with the scenery. This layout idea is the best proof that a little creativity can go a long way in terms of making a realistic model no matter the shape or size.
Railway Layout on Top of Circular Table
The N scale layout can also fit well with a circular table. Here we can see the tracks placed around a group of buildings of different colors. Two vehicles drive down the road between these buildings.
Layout with Diagonal Backdrop and Divider
This coffee table train layout is different from the others. There is a divider running diagonally to split the table in two which also works as a background for the two sides. While the other half is not visible from this angle, we can see trees peeking just over the divider acting as a more natural contrast to the industrial atmosphere that we can clearly see from here.
Pre Built N Scale Train Layouts
If inspiration is hard to come by or you do not have a usable coffee table to work on for this build, you can turn to pre built n scale logging layouts. There is no shortage of options in the market for pre built model railroad layouts that are for sale. There is ready-made terrain available for n-gauge layouts for small spaces. The scenery and terrain details can vary based on personal preference so you can find the best layout for your model trains.
N Scale Coffee Table Layout Plans
N scale train table plans are readily available online if you are looking for inspiration or ideas. You can find layouts and plans for all shapes and sizes of coffee tables – from rectangular to square and circular tables. You can choose the details to add to your model railroad layout based on a theme to make it more visually impressive and realistic. The most popular option is 3×6 n scale layouts.
Folded Dogbone Coffee Table Plan
The folded dogbone coffee table plan is a smart idea if you want to take your hobby of building model train layouts to the next level. It is more complex than it looks; this layout involves two folded ovals that allow for crossings and make it possible to run up to 3 trains simultaneously. It is a good idea for anyone looking for ideas for n scale layouts 2×4 size.
The best part about this folded dogbone railroad track plan is that you can create different sceneries for the East and West sides, making it look more complex yet realistic.
Basic Coffee Table Plan
If you are on a tight budget and working on a flat plane, a “basic” n scale train coffee table layout is a viable option. You can browse our site for ideas on small n scale train layouts or you can follow this basic layout for inspiration. This layout is ideal for anyone who likes to watch trains go on a seemingly endless loop on the track. This coffee table train set layout has adequate space to build your town-like settlement around the track.
2 by 4 N Scale Layouts for a Coffee Table
A coffee table is a good place to start when building 2×4 scale model train layouts. This particular layout design is suitable for all levels of hobbyists. It has a lot of forested areas and a good amount of buildings along the train track to give it a realistic appeal. There is even a tunnel for more authenticity with the look of the layout. Indeed, there is plenty you can do with these coffee table layouts and it is all up to your creativity and imagination.
You can have layouts that are as big as entire rooms or as small as briefcases. As we’ve seen in the photos here, you can also have layouts that are as small as coffee tables. Another thing we’ve learned is that smaller does not necessarily mean less quality and functionality.
These coffee table train layouts are just as creative as any that you would see that are twice their size. Their landscapes are rich in detail, and in certain cases the spaces that were available were utilized fully. Hopefully, you took down notes for when you decide to make your own model train layout.