Modeling Cliches to Avoid when Building your Layout

[Brutus]

Another "cliche`" is structures that have no reason to be where they are, such as a hotel next to a track in the middle of nowhere, unconnected to any community or activity.

Unless it's the Shady Rest Hotel! Which, was built where it was because the car derailed on a sharp bend and spilled out all the construction materials

One thing that usually catches my eye in layouts is when people put in one of those "puzzle" yards. But, they are fun, so why not!