I am considering putting a small in this cabinet when it's restored.
Good idea?
How would I access under the layout? Feet or something else to raise base?
Any positive or negative feedback welcome.
That looks like an excellent project and will make a fine display case for a small layout. Will it sit on a table/base/shelf or hang from a wall? What are the dimensions?
Regarding access under the layout why not just make the layout removable?
Hobby's suggestion of making the layout removable would mean that further down the line (pun unintended) the cabinet can be put back into use as a cabinet rather than as a somewhat awkward to move layout by making the bottom of the cabinet the base board. You may be able to get small castors to fit the underside of the layout base board to enable it to be slid in and out, though another thought would be felt-covered runners (deeper cross braces) that could slide over the polished surface of the cabinet's base.
Interestingly the only other ones of that type I've seen are currently in my parent's house and have been a part of the furniture for as long as I can remember. They have a set of 4 or 5 that stack, with a wooden plinth on the top, about 3'6" long, 15" front to back and about the same tall. From what I remember they are Victorian / Edwardian shop fittings, and if John's are anything like theirs the door hinges upwards then slides back into the cabinet to secure it open and like theirs the doors can be locked if you have the key (I don't think they do).
Yes - I think a slide-out layout could be made where you don't sacrifice too much vertical space for the baseboard depth.
I tend to agree with all the above.
Make the layout removable.
Brian Meldon
Thank you all for your suggestions. I would never have though of a slide out option.
Yes JulienW it is an Edwardian/Victorian display case, though slightly smaller at 3' 10" back to front.
That looks like a really good project. Have you thought about how you are going to keep a good vertical "Composition" ie make it look as if it needs the height? Like a cliff face, castle wall, tall tree etc. Mind you its Victorian so a folly would be in keeping. Have fun with that :)