@franonthedge: i don't want to force anyone to use sketchup - it is just that it is so simple that even i mastered it in a few days. one thing is that it is, from what i see from other modelers rather basic, althoug i found lots of possibilities after a while. btw i use the free version of sketchup.

@dvlenk: looks good - i will try to find out if i can do the same thing in sketchup (never tried yet)

as the sides of these houses almost exclusively are closed in by the other houses nothing special has to be done - even if houses are separated by e.g. a small alley, it would be bricks all the way up with perhaps a small window somewhere and a little door - not much modeling needed. this, i think could be added if necessary. the important things are front and back.

at the moment i am trying to find more detailed drawings of a movable bridge and, if nobody objects i will start with  that one.

hope the boss will turn up soon

"The light at the end of the tunnel may be an oncoming train"