I can sympathize with you, GEC. My garage has all the makings of a great layout room, just not a very good 'around-the-walls' layout. Maybe around some of the wall for a few feet here or there, but not all.
I solved my freezer problem by relocating it. And actually now it's in a much more convenient space. Somewhere I read the advice to put your workbench (not necessarily model train related) against the back wall of the garage, or one that is shared with the house since that's going to be a bit warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Those two ideas got me thinking about a rearranged furniture scheme for the garage that paid off big in kicking my butt back into gear for cleaning and organizing out there.
All these well intentioned planners are right that around the walls will increase your real estate for running trains, allow broader curves (and trains look better from inside the curve, especially long passenger cars) etc. But, like in my situation, they need more info to go on before the suggestion can be tailored for the specific needs of the room.
I have about 10 feet along one wall before I run into an electrical panel & cable wiring box, then another 6-8 feet beyond that before I hit the side door to the outside, and heading around the corner there's plenty of wall before hitting the door to the house, and after that's the AC and water heater, plus that side of the garage is the best place for the car, etc. etc.
SO my switching layout occupies one segment of wall and a 4x6 'layout' (read: test loop for the time being) sits in the 'stall' on that side with some room for the kiddo's ride-on outoor toys. My modeling desk is at the head of that stall with the workbench next to it...Oh and I forgot to mention the need to keep an aisle free for the garage pull-down stairs?
Despite all the difficulties, I did come up with several great plans to utilize some of the wall space, all variations on U or J or L or even G shaped plans. But these required a larger committment in time, money and energy than I was/am ready to make. Since I've settled on my switching layout & 4x6 plus working on a pile of unbuilt kits, I've been quite happier as a modeler although I occasionally get the itch for a big layout with broad curves...all those passenger cars boxed up calling to me to set them free...
I'd say count your blessings and make a long pros and cons list. Then if you're really serious about trying a bigger layout make the most detailed drawing of your space (pole, freezer, etc. included) with traffic flow, lighting, power outlets, etc. included. Lumber is cheap compared to brass (or BLI) and the payoff in operating satisfaction may be worth it. The decision is up to you so make an informed and well-thought out one.