In addition to his MBBS degree from the University of New South Wales in Australia, Dr. Nick Catsaras has over three decades of experience in finance and information technology. Mr. Catsaras leverages these experiences in serving Pegasus Research as managing director, where he conducts data mining and algorithmic data analysis. When not working, Nick Catsaras, MD, pursues his interest in constructing model railroads, specifically garden railroads.
Garden railroad construction is growing in popularity as a hobby. Enthusiasts who know something about gardens and trains have a head start. However, for those who are new to this fun and exciting hobby, beginning with the simplest garden railroad plan is better.
The simplest garden railroad plan is called a ground-level railroad. This is recommended for those who plan to move within the next few years, those who have limited budgets, or those who are thinking of upgrading the garden railroad to a more elaborate design in the near future.
A good starting size, if you have the space, for a ground-level railroad is a 4-to-5-foot diameter circle of track. You can add straight pieces for a more oval-shaped track. Designs can include a pond or waterfall feature, such as the pre-built plug-in fountains made of vinyl or resin. A ground-level railroad may also feature simple bridges.
The simplicity of the ground-level railroad design prepares the entire project for future upgrades, which normally include a raised railroad. Raised railroad designs may range from simple to elaborate. Landscapes are also more detailed. In the raised railroad, trains pass through raised rail tracks that resemble the city’s skyway systems.
Nick Catsaras 