Loosing The "Out-Of-The-Box" Look

[CharlesH.]

A few days ago I was... admiring my layout, and I noticed that it looked more like a hobby shop display because everything had that kit-built look. And to make things worse I had two of the most recognizable structures there are (Merchant's Row I and the Atlas Station). I'll be scratchbuilding a new station soon, but I don't want to loose Merchant's Row because its "niche" (and the interiors) is too nicely done, so the question is... what do you suggest to give it a more "unique" look?

And the same goes to a Spectrum 2-8-0 .

 

[rksstl]

Maybe try repainting the trim around the windows, add some roof detail or even add some new construction to the building its self. I'll even try looking at some real building that are close to what I'm modeling to see whats been added on over the years.

 

[Glen Haasdyk]

I agree with Rich, I recently repainted the trim on an old woodland scenics building and it looks a lot better. Besides, don't real buildings get a new paint job every couple years?