A few specifics: layout is 29" x 89", raises and lowers on a hand crank and cable system. The modeling workbench and storage are underneath.
Peco C55 for top track, Atlas C80 in the staging yard. All Kadee/Micro Trains couplers & under track magnets at strategic points. Everything on DCC, simple Lenz system using the smallest decoders, probably mostly Digitrax. Locos are all modified with 5 pole skew motors and electrical pickup from every wheel. Lights are a mix of micro incandescent bulbs and LED's.
Construction is a mix of wood for trackwork and foam for scenery. The foam sections can easily be lifted out for detail scene work, then dropped back into the layout.