I've been interested in designing a layout that uses full-scale, prototype-sized curves without resorting to any 'selective compression'.   For N scale this works out to 43" radius curves (1150 scale feet in diameter) to represent a 10-degree curve on the prototype.  My thought is that it would better represent the 'flow' of a real train as it negotiates such a curve, and that replicating such movement is a subliminal way to enhance overall realism.  The other benefit is that it should make it easier to run longer trains with fewer issues that occur because of tight curve radii.

I've put together a quick-and dirty demo video to illustrate the idea.  The circle in this demo is 86" (1150 scale feet) in diameter, and the trains are running at about a scale 25 mph.   One benefit that I noticed is that the DPU pusher at the end of the train cannot derail the cars in front of it, even if the lead locos in the consist are stopped/stalled.  (This demo is just a simple circle, a simple figure-8 would need a room of at least 8'x16', so it's not the most practical use of space in all cases.)

Would anyone know of any layouts that were built with full-sized curved radii in mind?   The closest I know of is the HO-scale La Mesa club in Balboa Park, but afaik the curves there are 'only' about 70% the size of a full-scale.

Thoughts and opinions are gratefully requested.

Thanks,
Ed