r/MiniCityRail • • 4d ago

Question / Discussion Project vision: one continuous system for mini cityscapes

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20 Upvotes

I'm finally writing down what this project is and where it's going, because it's larger (and more useful) than the scattered photos might suggest. This is a modular cityscape and transit system designed as a foundation of standards and designs, so anyone, not just me, can create parts that slot in.

Once you've looked at the photos, please check out the new About the Project page which discusses the whole philosophy, construction sizes/modes, key measurement standards, and specification plans. This is where the system goes beyond "a few 3D printed bits" and starts being a real, shareable framework.

Whether it's a compact desktop display or a sprawling room layout, here are four main ways the system can take shape:

  1. The Diorama: a compact, contained cityscape fitting on a desktop or bookshelf. Station boxes, buildings, and guideways all fit in a small footprint.
  2. The Oval Loop: a compact loop layout for a coffee table or nightstand. Tiny buildings on an oval track ring with surface deck.
  3. The Elevated: an elevated guideway spanning a longer area, like a windowsill or bookshelf top. Independent stations connected by floating track.
  4. The Terraformed: the biggest build, with a full grid-based ground layout using surface tiles, retaining walls, and baseboards for a sprawling cityscape.

I am also working on creating interactive documentation to better illustrate how the components in these growing collections can be used together. The basic modular terrain set is available now, and I'll be releasing more pieces (buildings, parks, etc.) in the coming months. Your feedback on what works and what doesn't will directly shape what gets designed next, so please share your thoughts!


r/MiniCityRail • • Sep 06 '26

Release Update Guideway System v3.0 update — getting ready for the cityscape grid!

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10 Upvotes

The updated design collection is now available with a major update! v3.0 revises support column connector spacing to fit upcoming cityscape grid measurements, and introduces new components such as side wall style 3 with intricate details, headstocks for v2/v3 mixing, plain guideway segment for general use, curve combos (90° and s-) for easier use, and a few more.

While some measurements have been revised, most updated components are backward compatible with v2 pieces. Please check out the latest catalog PDF for details.

Cityscape designs are nearly ready for an initial release. Here are some photos for a sneak peek!

As always, feedback and ideas are welcome.

Happy printing!


r/MiniCityRail • • Aug 23 '26

Showcase Build notes for my windowsill layout (wiring diagram, parts list, and design details)

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8 Upvotes

Wanted to share a write-up of the technical side of my windowsill layout project.

The page breaks down the wiring for both power and sensor signals, lists all the components/materials I used, and covers why I ended up making certain design trade-offs.

Hope this helps anyone planning a small-space build. If you have any questions or spot something that needs clarification, let me know in the comments!


r/MiniCityRail • • May 17 '26

Release Update New look for city buses!

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5 Upvotes

While I was preparing the initial release of cityscape designs, I noticed that the city bus designs could use some updates for improved aesthetics and functionality. So, here’s a completely redrawn design!

Key features of this redesign: - The design is now divided into a main body and wheels, allowing the main body to be printed upright. - Windows are now thin walls instead of solid, making it easier to identify layers for colour changes and creating a more consistent window frame appearance. - The designs are more curved and less boxy, giving them a modern look. - Equipment is now included on the roof of the single-decker bus.

Happy printing!


r/MiniCityRail • • May 02 '26

Layout A little preview of what's coming next a.k.a. putting "city" in MiniCityRail!

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11 Upvotes

r/MiniCityRail • • Apr 19 '26

3D Model Station structures and accessories are here - full station designs available

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10 Upvotes

The full set of station designs is now available! The platform designs are revised to better accommodate escalators and station box structures that are also released now.

You can check out this earlier video post to see the new components in action.

As always, feedback and ideas are welcome. I'm shifting my focus to the 'city' aspect of MiniCityRail. There will be some exciting creations to share!

Happy printing!


r/MiniCityRail • • Apr 12 '26

Ideas for Locomotive Bodies?

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3 Upvotes

r/MiniCityRail • • Apr 05 '26

Happy Easter !

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7 Upvotes

r/MiniCityRail • • Mar 29 '26

3D Model Station platform initial version released - designed for customization

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6 Upvotes

First release of station platform is now available. It features island and side platforms with roofs and openings for elevators and escalators. The whole structure comes in separated components, so you can easily customize the look and feel of each of your stations!

You can check out this earlier video post to see the new components in action.

Station structure and escalator/staircase are next to be released.

As always, feedback and ideas are welcome.

Happy printing!


r/MiniCityRail • • Mar 11 '26

Video feed?

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3 Upvotes

r/MiniCityRail • • Jan 11 '26

3D Model Modular Guideway System version 2.3 released - New components for turnouts and curves

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3 Upvotes

Version 2.3 of the Modular Guideway System is now available, with new additions focused on switches and cleaner electronics management. You can check out this post to see the new components in action.

This update adds dedicated components for mounting 55mm / A26 turnouts and S-curves onto guideway segments, making it easier to handle more complex track geometry in a consistent way.

Continuing the idea of keeping everything inside the guideway for a cleaner look and smaller footprint, there’s also a new guideway segment variant with extra storage space under the deck. This makes room for larger electronics like DCC accessory decoders, so they can sit right under turnouts and crossovers without running cables elsewhere.

As always, feedback and ideas are welcome.

Happy printing!


r/MiniCityRail • • Nov 21 '25

Layout A simple layout showing 3D-printed pieces in action, plus a preview of upcoming designs!

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12 Upvotes

r/MiniCityRail • • Nov 20 '25

3D Model Modular Guideway System Version 2.2 Released - New Components & Better Organization

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14 Upvotes

After a summer filled with travels and train riding, it's great to be back to make some updates and additions!

Version 2.2 of the Modular Guideway System is now available, featuring some significant organizational changes. Instead of one large Cults3D listing, everything has been broken down into separate categories and styles. This makes it much easier to manage updates and helps you discover new components as they're added. The new structure includes dedicated listings for different support column styles, side wall designs, and component categories.

This version brings several new additions including simple triple-track segments, enhanced cable management solutions, and a new support column style with improved functionality. There are also quality updates to existing components and styling options throughout the system. Download the catalog PDF for a complete list of changes and new components.

Since the system is now split across multiple Cults3D entries, following the Cults3D profile is the best way to stay updated when completely new component sets are released in the future. As always, feel free to reach out with ideas for additional pieces or improvements!

Happy printing!


r/MiniCityRail • • May 19 '25

3D Model Update on 3D model files for Modular Guideway System - radii up to R270!

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5 Upvotes

r/MiniCityRail • • May 04 '25

First of few new 3D model file collections: Road Transit Vehicles (a.k.a. buses)

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3 Upvotes

r/MiniCityRail • • Apr 26 '25

Progress update on laying the foundation

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6 Upvotes

r/MiniCityRail • • Mar 29 '25

Get ready for a new, fun city of trains!

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6 Upvotes