diff --git a/common/gal/color4d.cpp b/common/gal/color4d.cpp
index 78f1bec822..577eb621db 100644
--- a/common/gal/color4d.cpp
+++ b/common/gal/color4d.cpp
@@ -434,6 +434,7 @@ COLOR4D& COLOR4D::Saturate( double aFactor )
 constexpr COLOR4D COLOR4D::UNSPECIFIED( 0, 0, 0, 0 );
 constexpr COLOR4D COLOR4D::WHITE( 1, 1, 1, 1 );
 constexpr COLOR4D COLOR4D::BLACK( 0, 0, 0, 1 );
+constexpr COLOR4D COLOR4D::CLEAR( 1, 0, 1, 0 );
 
 
 EDA_COLOR_T COLOR4D::FindNearestLegacyColor( int aR, int aG, int aB )
diff --git a/common/project/project_file.cpp b/common/project/project_file.cpp
index 09e1e5dc4f..d97731f824 100644
--- a/common/project/project_file.cpp
+++ b/common/project/project_file.cpp
@@ -107,6 +107,95 @@ PROJECT_FILE::PROJECT_FILE( const std::string& aFullPath ) :
             }, {} ) );
 
     m_NetSettings = std::make_shared<NET_SETTINGS>( this, "net_settings" );
+
+    m_params.emplace_back( new PARAM_LAMBDA<nlohmann::json>( "board.layer_presets",
+            [&]() -> nlohmann::json
+            {
+                nlohmann::json ret = nlohmann::json::array();
+
+                for( const LAYER_PRESET& preset : m_LayerPresets )
+                {
+                    nlohmann::json js = {
+                                { "name", preset.name },
+                                { "activeLayer", preset.activeLayer }
+                            };
+
+                    nlohmann::json layers = nlohmann::json::array();
+
+                    for( PCB_LAYER_ID layer : preset.layers.Seq() )
+                        layers.push_back( static_cast<int>( layer ) );
+
+                    js["layers"] = layers;
+
+                    nlohmann::json renderLayers = nlohmann::json::array();
+
+                    for( GAL_LAYER_ID layer : preset.renderLayers.Seq() )
+                        renderLayers.push_back( static_cast<int>( layer ) );
+
+                    js["renderLayers"] = renderLayers;
+
+                    ret.push_back( js );
+                }
+
+                return ret;
+            },
+            [&]( const nlohmann::json& aVal )
+            {
+                if( aVal.empty() || !aVal.is_array() )
+                    return;
+
+                m_LayerPresets.clear();
+
+                for( const nlohmann::json& preset : aVal )
+                {
+                    if( preset.contains( "name" ) )
+                    {
+                        LAYER_PRESET p( preset.at( "name" ).get<wxString>() );
+
+                        if( preset.contains( "activeLayer" ) &&
+                                preset.at( "activeLayer" ).is_number_integer() )
+                        {
+                            int active = preset.at( "activeLayer" ).get<int>();
+
+                            if( active >= 0 && active < PCB_LAYER_ID_COUNT )
+                                p.activeLayer = static_cast<PCB_LAYER_ID>( active );
+                        }
+
+                        if( preset.contains( "layers" ) && preset.at( "layers" ).is_array() )
+                        {
+                            for( const nlohmann::json& layer : preset.at( "layers" ) )
+                            {
+                                if( layer.is_number_integer() )
+                                {
+                                    int layerNum = layer.get<int>();
+
+                                    if( layerNum >= 0 && layerNum < PCB_LAYER_ID_COUNT )
+                                        p.layers.set( layerNum );
+                                }
+                            }
+                        }
+
+                        if( preset.contains( "renderLayers" )
+                                && preset.at( "renderLayers" ).is_array() )
+                        {
+                            for( const nlohmann::json& layer : preset.at( "renderLayers" ) )
+                            {
+                                if( layer.is_number_integer() )
+                                {
+                                    int layerNum = layer.get<int>();
+
+                                    if( layerNum >= GAL_LAYER_ID_START
+                                            && layerNum < GAL_LAYER_ID_END )
+                                        p.layers.set( layerNum );
+                                }
+                            }
+                        }
+
+                        m_LayerPresets.emplace_back( p );
+                    }
+                }
+            },
+            {} ) );
 }
 
 
diff --git a/common/project/project_local_settings.cpp b/common/project/project_local_settings.cpp
index 079d6052fd..47582838e8 100644
--- a/common/project/project_local_settings.cpp
+++ b/common/project/project_local_settings.cpp
@@ -140,9 +140,16 @@ PROJECT_LOCAL_SETTINGS::PROJECT_LOCAL_SETTINGS( const std::string& aFilename ) :
             } ) );
 
     m_params.emplace_back( new PARAM_ENUM<PCB_LAYER_ID>(
-            "active_layer", &m_ActiveLayer, F_Cu, PCBNEW_LAYER_ID_START, F_Fab ) );
+            "board.active_layer", &m_ActiveLayer, F_Cu, PCBNEW_LAYER_ID_START, F_Fab ) );
 
-    m_params.emplace_back( new PARAM_LIST<wxString>( "hidden_nets", &m_HiddenNets, {} ) );
+    m_params.emplace_back( new PARAM<wxString>( "board.active_layer_preset",
+            &m_ActiveLayerPreset, "" ) );
+
+    m_params.emplace_back( new PARAM_ENUM<HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE>( "board.high_contrast_mode",
+            &m_ContrastModeDisplay, HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL, HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL,
+            HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::HIDDEN ) );
+
+    m_params.emplace_back( new PARAM_LIST<wxString>( "board.hidden_nets", &m_HiddenNets, {} ) );
 }
 
 
diff --git a/common/tool/actions.cpp b/common/tool/actions.cpp
index a4779c172c..308eedc18f 100644
--- a/common/tool/actions.cpp
+++ b/common/tool/actions.cpp
@@ -490,6 +490,10 @@ TOOL_ACTION ACTIONS::highContrastMode( "common.Control.highContrastMode",
         _( "High Contrast Mode" ), _( "Use high contrast display mode" ),
         contrast_mode_xpm );
 
+TOOL_ACTION ACTIONS::highContrastModeCycle( "common.Control.highContrastModeCycle",
+        AS_GLOBAL, 0, "",  _( "High Contrast Mode (3-state)" ),
+        _( "Toggle inactive layers between normal, dimmed, and hidden" ), contrast_mode_xpm );
+
 TOOL_ACTION ACTIONS::selectionTool( "common.InteractiveSelection.selectionTool",
         AS_GLOBAL, 0, "",
         _( "Select item(s)" ), "",
diff --git a/include/gal/color4d.h b/include/gal/color4d.h
index bfc17f552c..1423e7b98f 100644
--- a/include/gal/color4d.h
+++ b/include/gal/color4d.h
@@ -374,6 +374,7 @@ public:
     // Declare a few color shortcuts that are used for comparisons frequently
     static const COLOR4D WHITE;
     static const COLOR4D BLACK;
+    static const COLOR4D CLEAR;
 };
 
 /// @brief Equality operator, are two colors equal
diff --git a/include/layers_id_colors_and_visibility.h b/include/layers_id_colors_and_visibility.h
index fbc7422064..7c5499c4a0 100644
--- a/include/layers_id_colors_and_visibility.h
+++ b/include/layers_id_colors_and_visibility.h
@@ -234,6 +234,44 @@ inline GAL_LAYER_ID operator+( const GAL_LAYER_ID& a, int b )
     return t;
 }
 
+/// Helper for storing and iterating over GAL_LAYER_IDs
+class GAL_SET : public std::bitset<GAL_LAYER_ID_COUNT>
+{
+public:
+    GAL_SET() : std::bitset<GAL_LAYER_ID_COUNT>()
+    {
+    }
+
+    GAL_SET( const GAL_SET& aOther ) : std::bitset<GAL_LAYER_ID_COUNT>( aOther )
+    {
+    }
+
+    GAL_SET& set()
+    {
+        std::bitset<GAL_LAYER_ID_COUNT>::set();
+        return *this;
+    }
+
+    GAL_SET& set( size_t aPos, bool aVal = true )
+    {
+        std::bitset<GAL_LAYER_ID_COUNT>::set( aPos, aVal );
+        return *this;
+    }
+
+    std::vector<GAL_LAYER_ID> Seq() const
+    {
+        std::vector<GAL_LAYER_ID> ret;
+
+        for( size_t i = 0; i < size(); ++i )
+        {
+            if( test( i ) )
+                ret.push_back( static_cast<GAL_LAYER_ID>( i ) );
+        }
+
+        return ret;
+    }
+};
+
 /// Eeschema drawing layers
 enum SCH_LAYER_ID: int
 {
@@ -404,7 +442,6 @@ public:
     }
 };
 
-typedef std::bitset<GAL_LAYER_ID_COUNT>     GAL_SET;
 
 typedef std::bitset<PCB_LAYER_ID_COUNT>     BASE_SET;
 
diff --git a/include/pcb_base_frame.h b/include/pcb_base_frame.h
index 63e9a72898..5717538148 100644
--- a/include/pcb_base_frame.h
+++ b/include/pcb_base_frame.h
@@ -173,7 +173,7 @@ public:
      * (for instance solid or sketch mode)
      */
     const PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS& GetDisplayOptions() const { return m_DisplayOptions; }
-    void SetDisplayOptions( const PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS& aOptions ) { m_DisplayOptions = aOptions; }
+    void SetDisplayOptions( const PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS& aOptions );
 
     const ZONE_SETTINGS& GetZoneSettings() const;
     void SetZoneSettings( const ZONE_SETTINGS& aSettings );
@@ -369,6 +369,8 @@ public:
 
     int GetSeverity( int aErrorCode ) const override;
 
+    virtual void OnDisplayOptionsChanged() {}
+
     void LoadSettings( APP_SETTINGS_BASE* aCfg ) override;
     void SaveSettings( APP_SETTINGS_BASE* aCfg ) override;
 
diff --git a/include/pcb_display_options.h b/include/pcb_display_options.h
index c5f1eb58de..74e8e738f2 100644
--- a/include/pcb_display_options.h
+++ b/include/pcb_display_options.h
@@ -30,6 +30,8 @@
 #ifndef PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS_H_
 #define PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS_H_
 
+#include <project/board_project_settings.h>
+
 /**
  * PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS
  * handles display options like enable/disable some optional drawings.
@@ -79,7 +81,9 @@ public:
                                      * 3 show netnames on tracks and pads
                                      */
 
-    bool m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+    /// How inactive layers are displayed.  @see HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE
+    HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+
     int  m_MaxLinksShowed;              // in track creation: number of hairwires shown
     bool m_ShowModuleRatsnest;          // When moving a footprint: allows displaying a ratsnest
     bool m_ShowGlobalRatsnest;          // If true, show all
diff --git a/include/project/board_local_settings.h b/include/project/board_project_settings.h
similarity index 57%
rename from include/project/board_local_settings.h
rename to include/project/board_project_settings.h
index e05220a8ba..7661442a66 100644
--- a/include/project/board_local_settings.h
+++ b/include/project/board_project_settings.h
@@ -18,8 +18,16 @@
  * with this program.  If not, see <http://www.gnu.org/licenses/>.
  */
 
-#ifndef KICAD_BOARD_LOCAL_SETTINGS_H
-#define KICAD_BOARD_LOCAL_SETTINGS_H
+#ifndef KICAD_BOARD_PROJECT_SETTINGS_H
+#define KICAD_BOARD_PROJECT_SETTINGS_H
+
+#include <layers_id_colors_and_visibility.h>
+
+/**
+ * This file contains data structures that are saved in the project file or project local settings
+ * file that are specific to PcbNew.  This is done so that these structures are available in common.
+ */
+
 
 /**
  * Selection filtering that applies all the time (not the "filter selection" dialog that modifies
@@ -67,4 +75,50 @@ struct SELECTION_FILTER_OPTIONS
     }
 };
 
-#endif // KICAD_BOARD_LOCAL_SETTINGS_H
+/**
+     * Determines how inactive layers should be displayed
+     */
+enum class HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE
+{
+    NORMAL = 0,     ///> Non-active layers are shown normally (no high-contrast mode)
+    DIMMED,         ///> Non-active layers are dimmed (old high-contrast mode)
+    HIDDEN          ///> Non-active layers are hidden
+};
+
+/**
+ * A saved set of layers that are visible
+ */
+struct LAYER_PRESET
+{
+    wxString     name;          ///< A name for this layer set
+    LSET         layers;        ///< Board layers that are visible
+    GAL_SET      renderLayers;  ///< Render layers (e.g. object types) that are visible
+    PCB_LAYER_ID activeLayer;   ///< Optional layer to set active when this preset is loaded
+
+    LAYER_PRESET( const wxString& aName ) :
+            name( aName ),
+            activeLayer( UNSELECTED_LAYER )
+    {
+    }
+
+    LAYER_PRESET( const wxString& aName, const LSET& aSet ) :
+            name( aName ),
+            layers( aSet ),
+            activeLayer( UNSELECTED_LAYER )
+    {
+    }
+
+    LAYER_PRESET( const wxString& aName, const LSET& aSet, PCB_LAYER_ID aActive ) :
+            name( aName ),
+            layers( aSet ),
+            activeLayer( aActive )
+    {
+    }
+
+    bool LayersMatch( const LAYER_PRESET& aOther )
+    {
+        return aOther.layers == layers && aOther.renderLayers == renderLayers;
+    }
+};
+
+#endif // KICAD_BOARD_PROJECT_SETTINGS_H
diff --git a/include/project/project_file.h b/include/project/project_file.h
index f6a7be7236..5cbf7d93db 100644
--- a/include/project/project_file.h
+++ b/include/project/project_file.h
@@ -22,6 +22,7 @@
 #define KICAD_PROJECT_FILE_H
 
 #include <common.h>
+#include <project/board_project_settings.h>
 #include <settings/json_settings.h>
 #include <settings/nested_settings.h>
 
@@ -183,6 +184,9 @@ public:
      * schematics, one netlist partitioned into multiple boards)
      */
      std::shared_ptr<NET_SETTINGS> m_NetSettings;
+
+    /// List of stored layer presets
+    std::vector<LAYER_PRESET> m_LayerPresets;
 };
 
 // Specializations to allow directly reading/writing FILE_INFO_PAIRs from JSON
diff --git a/include/project/project_local_settings.h b/include/project/project_local_settings.h
index 278bf636a3..b16d1fc8de 100644
--- a/include/project/project_local_settings.h
+++ b/include/project/project_local_settings.h
@@ -22,7 +22,7 @@
 #define KICAD_PROJECT_LOCAL_SETTINGS_H
 
 #include <layers_id_colors_and_visibility.h>
-#include <project/board_local_settings.h>
+#include <project/board_project_settings.h>
 #include <settings/json_settings.h>
 #include <wildcards_and_files_ext.h>
 
@@ -88,6 +88,12 @@ public:
     /// The current (active) board layer for editing
     PCB_LAYER_ID m_ActiveLayer;
 
+    /// The name of a LAYER_PRESET that is currently activated (or blank if none)
+    wxString m_ActiveLayerPreset;
+
+    /// The current contrast mode
+    HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+
     /**
      * A list of netnames that have been manually hidden in the board editor.
      * Currently, hiding nets means hiding the ratsnest for those nets.
diff --git a/include/tool/actions.h b/include/tool/actions.h
index d287fc7b9d..706622416e 100644
--- a/include/tool/actions.h
+++ b/include/tool/actions.h
@@ -97,6 +97,7 @@ public:
     static TOOL_ACTION toggleCursor;
     static TOOL_ACTION toggleCursorStyle;
     static TOOL_ACTION highContrastMode;
+    static TOOL_ACTION highContrastModeCycle;
 
     static TOOL_ACTION refreshPreview;      // Similar to a synthetic mouseMoved event, but also
                                             // used after a rotate, mirror, etc.
diff --git a/pcbnew/edit.cpp b/pcbnew/edit.cpp
index 591fc3ab20..7bf95e697e 100644
--- a/pcbnew/edit.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/edit.cpp
@@ -60,7 +60,7 @@ void PCB_EDIT_FRAME::Process_Special_Functions( wxCommandEvent& event )
     case ID_TOOLBARH_PCB_SELECT_LAYER:
         SetActiveLayer( ToLAYER_ID( m_SelLayerBox->GetLayerSelection() ) );
 
-        if( displ_opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay )
+        if( displ_opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay != HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL )
             GetCanvas()->Refresh();
         break;
 
@@ -118,7 +118,7 @@ void PCB_EDIT_FRAME::SwitchLayer( wxDC* DC, PCB_LAYER_ID layer )
 
     SetActiveLayer( layer );
 
-    if( displ_opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay )
+    if( displ_opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay != HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL )
         GetCanvas()->Refresh();
 }
 
diff --git a/pcbnew/footprint_editor_utils.cpp b/pcbnew/footprint_editor_utils.cpp
index 457f81e8f1..57165755fa 100644
--- a/pcbnew/footprint_editor_utils.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/footprint_editor_utils.cpp
@@ -300,8 +300,11 @@ void FOOTPRINT_EDIT_FRAME::Process_Special_Functions( wxCommandEvent& event )
     case ID_TOOLBARH_PCB_SELECT_LAYER:
         SetActiveLayer( ToLAYER_ID( m_selLayerBox->GetLayerSelection() ) );
 
-        if( GetDisplayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay )
+        if( GetDisplayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay !=
+            HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL )
+        {
             GetCanvas()->Refresh();
+        }
         break;
 
     case ID_MODEDIT_CHECK:
diff --git a/pcbnew/menubar_footprint_editor.cpp b/pcbnew/menubar_footprint_editor.cpp
index 11e58cb42f..cfaace4e0f 100644
--- a/pcbnew/menubar_footprint_editor.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/menubar_footprint_editor.cpp
@@ -168,7 +168,8 @@ void FOOTPRINT_EDIT_FRAME::ReCreateMenuBar()
         return !GetDisplayOptions().m_DisplayTextFill;
     };
     auto contrastModeCondition = [ this ] ( const SELECTION& aSel ) {
-        return !GetDisplayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+        return ( GetDisplayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay !=
+                 HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL );
     };
     auto searchTreeShownCondition = [ this ] ( const SELECTION& aSel ) {
         return IsSearchTreeShown();
@@ -216,8 +217,8 @@ void FOOTPRINT_EDIT_FRAME::ReCreateMenuBar()
     contrastModeSubMenu->SetIcon( contrast_mode_xpm );
 
     contrastModeSubMenu->AddCheckItem( ACTIONS::highContrastMode, contrastModeCondition );
-    contrastModeSubMenu->AddItem( PCB_ACTIONS::layerAlphaDec,     SELECTION_CONDITIONS::ShowAlways );
-    contrastModeSubMenu->AddItem( PCB_ACTIONS::layerAlphaInc,     SELECTION_CONDITIONS::ShowAlways );
+    contrastModeSubMenu->AddItem( PCB_ACTIONS::layerAlphaDec, SELECTION_CONDITIONS::ShowAlways );
+    contrastModeSubMenu->AddItem( PCB_ACTIONS::layerAlphaInc, SELECTION_CONDITIONS::ShowAlways );
     viewMenu->AddMenu( contrastModeSubMenu );
 
     viewMenu->AddSeparator();
diff --git a/pcbnew/menubar_pcb_editor.cpp b/pcbnew/menubar_pcb_editor.cpp
index 67fb6ccab8..c6ffc13f17 100644
--- a/pcbnew/menubar_pcb_editor.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/menubar_pcb_editor.cpp
@@ -318,7 +318,7 @@ void PCB_EDIT_FRAME::ReCreateMenuBar()
     };
     auto contrastModeCondition = [ &disp_opt ]( const SELECTION &aSel )
     {
-        return !disp_opt.m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+        return disp_opt.m_ContrastModeDisplay != HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL;
     };
     auto sketchGraphicsCondition = [ &disp_opt ]( const SELECTION &aSel )
     {
@@ -386,7 +386,7 @@ void PCB_EDIT_FRAME::ReCreateMenuBar()
     contrastModeSubMenu->SetTitle( _( "&Contrast Mode" ) );
     contrastModeSubMenu->SetIcon( contrast_mode_xpm );
 
-    contrastModeSubMenu->AddCheckItem( ACTIONS::highContrastMode,       contrastModeCondition );
+    contrastModeSubMenu->AddCheckItem( ACTIONS::highContrastMode, contrastModeCondition );
     contrastModeSubMenu->AddItem( PCB_ACTIONS::layerAlphaDec, SELECTION_CONDITIONS::ShowAlways );
     contrastModeSubMenu->AddItem( PCB_ACTIONS::layerAlphaInc, SELECTION_CONDITIONS::ShowAlways );
     viewMenu->AddMenu( contrastModeSubMenu );
diff --git a/pcbnew/pcb_base_frame.cpp b/pcbnew/pcb_base_frame.cpp
index b7c25418e5..a3bc27a70b 100644
--- a/pcbnew/pcb_base_frame.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/pcb_base_frame.cpp
@@ -417,7 +417,7 @@ void PCB_BASE_FRAME::SwitchLayer( wxDC* DC, PCB_LAYER_ID layer )
 
     SetActiveLayer( layer );
 
-    if( displ_opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay )
+    if( displ_opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay != HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL )
         GetCanvas()->Refresh();
 }
 
@@ -742,3 +742,17 @@ void PCB_BASE_FRAME::ActivateGalCanvas()
     canvas->StartDrawing();
 }
 
+
+void PCB_BASE_FRAME::SetDisplayOptions( const PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS& aOptions )
+{
+    m_DisplayOptions = aOptions;
+
+    EDA_DRAW_PANEL_GAL* canvas = GetCanvas();
+    KIGFX::PCB_VIEW*    view   = static_cast<KIGFX::PCB_VIEW*>( canvas->GetView() );
+
+    view->UpdateDisplayOptions( aOptions );
+    canvas->SetHighContrastLayer( GetActiveLayer() );
+    OnDisplayOptionsChanged();
+
+    canvas->Refresh();
+}
diff --git a/pcbnew/pcb_display_options.cpp b/pcbnew/pcb_display_options.cpp
index 7b88e6f914..799fe3bb87 100644
--- a/pcbnew/pcb_display_options.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/pcb_display_options.cpp
@@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS::PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS()
                                          * 1 show netnames on pads
                                          * 2 show netnames on tracks
                                          * 3 show netnames on tracks and pads */
-    m_ContrastModeDisplay     = false;
+    m_ContrastModeDisplay     = HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL;
     m_MaxLinksShowed          = 3;        // in track creation: number of hairwires shown
     m_ShowModuleRatsnest      = true;     // When moving a footprint: allows displaying a ratsnest
     m_DisplayRatsnestLinesCurved = false;
diff --git a/pcbnew/pcb_layer_widget.cpp b/pcbnew/pcb_layer_widget.cpp
index c0a38c17af..e016530ff9 100644
--- a/pcbnew/pcb_layer_widget.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/pcb_layer_widget.cpp
@@ -592,9 +592,12 @@ bool PCB_LAYER_WIDGET::OnLayerSelect( int aLayer )
 
     myframe->SetActiveLayer( layer );
 
+    bool hcm = ( myframe->GetDisplayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay !=
+                 HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL );
+
     if( m_alwaysShowActiveCopperLayer )
         OnLayerSelected();
-    else if( myframe->GetDisplayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay )
+    else if( hcm )
         myframe->GetCanvas()->Refresh();
 
     return true;
diff --git a/pcbnew/pcb_painter.cpp b/pcbnew/pcb_painter.cpp
index ebbc48de5e..7b2263c3e5 100644
--- a/pcbnew/pcb_painter.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/pcb_painter.cpp
@@ -129,7 +129,8 @@ void PCB_RENDER_SETTINGS::LoadColors( const COLOR_SETTINGS* aSettings )
 void PCB_RENDER_SETTINGS::LoadDisplayOptions( const PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS& aOptions,
                                               bool aShowPageLimits )
 {
-    m_hiContrastEnabled = aOptions.m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+    m_hiContrastEnabled = ( aOptions.m_ContrastModeDisplay !=
+                            HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL );
     m_padNumbers        = aOptions.m_DisplayPadNum;
     m_sketchGraphics    = !aOptions.m_DisplayGraphicsFill;
     m_sketchText        = !aOptions.m_DisplayTextFill;
@@ -214,6 +215,8 @@ void PCB_RENDER_SETTINGS::LoadDisplayOptions( const PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS& aOption
     if( aOptions.m_DisplayPadIsol )
         m_clearance |= CL_PADS;
 
+    m_contrastModeDisplay = aOptions.m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+
     m_showPageLimits = aShowPageLimits;
 }
 
@@ -247,6 +250,15 @@ const COLOR4D& PCB_RENDER_SETTINGS::GetColor( const VIEW_ITEM* aItem, int aLayer
     const EDA_ITEM* item = dynamic_cast<const EDA_ITEM*>( aItem );
     const BOARD_CONNECTED_ITEM* conItem = dynamic_cast<const BOARD_CONNECTED_ITEM*> ( aItem );
 
+    // Make items invisible in "other layers hidden" contrast mode
+    if( m_contrastModeDisplay == HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::HIDDEN && m_activeLayers.count( aLayer ) == 0 )
+        return COLOR4D::CLEAR;
+
+    // Hide net names in "dimmed" contrast mode
+    if( m_contrastModeDisplay != HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL && IsNetnameLayer( aLayer )
+        && m_activeLayers.count( aLayer ) == 0 )
+        return COLOR4D::CLEAR;
+
     if( item )
     {
         // Selection disambiguation
@@ -297,8 +309,8 @@ const COLOR4D& PCB_RENDER_SETTINGS::GetColor( const VIEW_ITEM* aItem, int aLayer
     if( m_highlightEnabled && m_highlightNetcodes.count( netCode ) )
         return m_layerColorsHi[aLayer];
 
-    // Return grayish color for non-highlighted layers in the high contrast mode
-    if( m_hiContrastEnabled && m_activeLayers.count( aLayer ) == 0 )
+    // Return grayish color for non-highlighted layers in the dimmed high contrast mode
+    if( m_contrastModeDisplay == HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::DIMMED && m_activeLayers.count( aLayer ) == 0 )
         return m_hiContrastColor[aLayer];
 
     // Catch the case when highlight and high-contraste modes are enabled
diff --git a/pcbnew/pcb_painter.h b/pcbnew/pcb_painter.h
index 930e718543..221b2f50ed 100644
--- a/pcbnew/pcb_painter.h
+++ b/pcbnew/pcb_painter.h
@@ -28,6 +28,7 @@
 #define __CLASS_PCB_PAINTER_H
 
 #include <painter.h>
+#include <pcb_display_options.h>
 
 #include <memory>
 
@@ -88,6 +89,7 @@ public:
         DZ_SHOW_OUTLINED
     };
 
+    ///> Determines how net color overrides should be applied
     enum class NET_COLOR_MODE
     {
         OFF,        ///< Net (and netclass) colors are not shown
@@ -250,6 +252,9 @@ protected:
 
     ///> Set of net codes that should not have their ratsnest displayed
     std::set<int> m_hiddenNets;
+
+    ///> How to display inactive layers
+    HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE m_contrastModeDisplay;
 };
 
 
diff --git a/pcbnew/pcbnew_config.cpp b/pcbnew/pcbnew_config.cpp
index fbeeab8271..b74b652d63 100644
--- a/pcbnew/pcbnew_config.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/pcbnew_config.cpp
@@ -117,6 +117,12 @@ bool PCB_EDIT_FRAME::LoadProjectSettings()
     filterOpts = localSettings.m_SelectionFilter;
     m_selectionFilterPanel->SetCheckboxesFromFilter( filterOpts );
 
+    PCB_DISPLAY_OPTIONS opts   = GetDisplayOptions();
+    opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay = localSettings.m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+    SetDisplayOptions( opts );
+
+    SetActiveLayer( localSettings.m_ActiveLayer );
+
     return true;
 }
 
@@ -142,6 +148,10 @@ void PCB_EDIT_FRAME::SaveProjectSettings()
 
     RecordDRCExclusions();
 
+    localSettings.m_ActiveLayer = GetActiveLayer();
+
+    localSettings.m_ContrastModeDisplay = GetDisplayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+
     KIGFX::PCB_RENDER_SETTINGS* rs = static_cast<KIGFX::PCB_RENDER_SETTINGS*>(
             GetCanvas()->GetView()->GetPainter()->GetSettings() );
 
diff --git a/pcbnew/router/pns_tool_base.cpp b/pcbnew/router/pns_tool_base.cpp
index 60ab02561b..97dcca3911 100644
--- a/pcbnew/router/pns_tool_base.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/router/pns_tool_base.cpp
@@ -198,13 +198,15 @@ ITEM* TOOL_BASE::pickSingleItem( const VECTOR2I& aWhere, int aNet, int aLayer, b
 
     ITEM* rv = NULL;
 
+    bool highContrast = ( displayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay !=
+                          HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL );
+
     for( int i = 0; i < candidateCount; i++ )
     {
         ITEM* item = prioritized[i];
 
-        if( displayOptions().m_ContrastModeDisplay )
-            if( item && !item->Layers().Overlaps( tl ) )
-                item = NULL;
+        if( highContrast && item && !item->Layers().Overlaps( tl ) )
+            item = nullptr;
 
         if( item && ( aLayer < 0 || item->Layers().Overlaps( aLayer ) ) )
         {
diff --git a/pcbnew/toolbars_footprint_editor.cpp b/pcbnew/toolbars_footprint_editor.cpp
index 028bda8e3f..dc7cebe31a 100644
--- a/pcbnew/toolbars_footprint_editor.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/toolbars_footprint_editor.cpp
@@ -237,6 +237,8 @@ void FOOTPRINT_EDIT_FRAME::SyncToolbars()
     m_mainToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::footprintProperties, GetBoard()->GetFirstModule() );
     m_mainToolBar->Refresh();
 
+    bool hcm = opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay != HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL;
+
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( ACTIONS::toggleGrid,              IsGridVisible() );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( ACTIONS::metricUnits,         GetUserUnits() != EDA_UNITS::INCHES );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( ACTIONS::imperialUnits,       GetUserUnits() == EDA_UNITS::INCHES );
@@ -244,7 +246,7 @@ void FOOTPRINT_EDIT_FRAME::SyncToolbars()
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::padDisplayMode,      !opts.m_DisplayPadFill );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::textOutlines,        !opts.m_DisplayTextFill );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::graphicsOutlines,    !opts.m_DisplayGraphicsFill );
-    m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( ACTIONS::highContrastMode,        opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay );
+    m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( ACTIONS::highContrastMode,        hcm );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::toggleFootprintTree, IsSearchTreeShown() );
     m_optionsToolBar->Refresh();
 
diff --git a/pcbnew/toolbars_pcb_editor.cpp b/pcbnew/toolbars_pcb_editor.cpp
index 91f15a54fd..e1cb9e82b7 100644
--- a/pcbnew/toolbars_pcb_editor.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/toolbars_pcb_editor.cpp
@@ -731,13 +731,15 @@ void PCB_EDIT_FRAME::SyncToolbars()
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::showLayersManager,    LayerManagerShown() );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::showMicrowaveToolbar, MicrowaveToolbarShown() );
 
+    bool hcm = opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay != HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL;
+
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayEnable,    zoneMode == 0 );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayDisable,   zoneMode == 1 );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayOutlines,  zoneMode == 2 );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::trackDisplayMode,     !opts.m_DisplayPcbTrackFill );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::viaDisplayMode,       !opts.m_DisplayViaFill );
     m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( PCB_ACTIONS::padDisplayMode,       !opts.m_DisplayPadFill );
-    m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( ACTIONS::highContrastMode,         opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay );
+    m_optionsToolBar->Toggle( ACTIONS::highContrastMode,         hcm );
     m_optionsToolBar->Refresh();
 
     TOGGLE_TOOL( m_drawToolBar, ACTIONS::selectionTool );
diff --git a/pcbnew/tools/pad_tool.cpp b/pcbnew/tools/pad_tool.cpp
index 054b77f1ae..b3a48b2e21 100644
--- a/pcbnew/tools/pad_tool.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/tools/pad_tool.cpp
@@ -519,10 +519,11 @@ int PAD_TOOL::EditPad( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent )
         D_PAD*       pad = static_cast<D_PAD*>( selection[0] );
         PCB_LAYER_ID layer = explodePad( pad );
 
-        m_wasHighContrast = opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay;
+        m_wasHighContrast = ( opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay !=
+                              HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL );
         frame()->SetActiveLayer( layer );
 
-        if( !opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay )
+        if( !m_wasHighContrast )
             m_toolMgr->RunAction( ACTIONS::highContrastMode, false );
 
         if( PCB_ACTIONS::explodePad.GetHotKey() == PCB_ACTIONS::recombinePad.GetHotKey() )
@@ -540,7 +541,10 @@ int PAD_TOOL::EditPad( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent )
 
     if( m_editPad == niluuid )
     {
-        if( m_wasHighContrast != opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay )
+        bool highContrast = ( opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay !=
+                              HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL );
+
+        if( m_wasHighContrast != highContrast )
             m_toolMgr->RunAction( ACTIONS::highContrastMode, false );
 
         infoBar->Dismiss();
diff --git a/pcbnew/tools/pcbnew_control.cpp b/pcbnew/tools/pcbnew_control.cpp
index ef32325f50..a31314d37f 100644
--- a/pcbnew/tools/pcbnew_control.cpp
+++ b/pcbnew/tools/pcbnew_control.cpp
@@ -214,10 +214,40 @@ int PCBNEW_CONTROL::HighContrastMode( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent )
 {
     auto opts = displayOptions();
 
-    Flip( opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay );
+    opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay =
+            ( opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay == HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL ) ?
+            HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::DIMMED :
+            HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL;
+
     m_frame->SetDisplayOptions( opts );
-    view()->UpdateDisplayOptions( opts );
-    canvas()->SetHighContrastLayer( m_frame->GetActiveLayer() );
+
+    return 0;
+}
+
+
+int PCBNEW_CONTROL::HighContrastModeCycle( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent )
+{
+    auto opts = displayOptions();
+
+    switch( opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay )
+    {
+    case HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL:
+        opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay = HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::DIMMED;
+        break;
+
+    case HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::DIMMED:
+        opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay = HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::HIDDEN;
+        break;
+
+    case HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::HIDDEN:
+        opts.m_ContrastModeDisplay = HIGH_CONTRAST_MODE::NORMAL;
+        break;
+    }
+
+    m_frame->SetDisplayOptions( opts );
+
+    // TODO: remove once EVT_UPDATE_UI works
+    m_frame->SyncToolbars();
 
     return 0;
 }
@@ -1023,15 +1053,16 @@ void PCBNEW_CONTROL::setTransitions()
     Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::Quit,                 ACTIONS::quit.MakeEvent() );
 
     // Display modes
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::TrackDisplayMode,     PCB_ACTIONS::trackDisplayMode.MakeEvent() );
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ToggleRatsnest,       PCB_ACTIONS::showRatsnest.MakeEvent() );
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ToggleRatsnest,       PCB_ACTIONS::ratsnestLineMode.MakeEvent() );
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ViaDisplayMode,       PCB_ACTIONS::viaDisplayMode.MakeEvent() );
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ZoneDisplayMode,      PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayEnable.MakeEvent() );
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ZoneDisplayMode,      PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayDisable.MakeEvent() );
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ZoneDisplayMode,      PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayOutlines.MakeEvent() );
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ZoneDisplayMode,      PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayToggle.MakeEvent() );
-    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::HighContrastMode,     ACTIONS::highContrastMode.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::TrackDisplayMode,      PCB_ACTIONS::trackDisplayMode.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ToggleRatsnest,        PCB_ACTIONS::showRatsnest.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ToggleRatsnest,        PCB_ACTIONS::ratsnestLineMode.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ViaDisplayMode,        PCB_ACTIONS::viaDisplayMode.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ZoneDisplayMode,       PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayEnable.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ZoneDisplayMode,       PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayDisable.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ZoneDisplayMode,       PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayOutlines.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::ZoneDisplayMode,       PCB_ACTIONS::zoneDisplayToggle.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::HighContrastMode,      ACTIONS::highContrastMode.MakeEvent() );
+    Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::HighContrastModeCycle, ACTIONS::highContrastModeCycle.MakeEvent() );
 
     // Layer control
     Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::LayerSwitch,          PCB_ACTIONS::layerTop.MakeEvent() );
@@ -1092,5 +1123,3 @@ void PCBNEW_CONTROL::setTransitions()
     Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::UpdateMessagePanel,   EVENTS::ClearedEvent );
     Go( &PCBNEW_CONTROL::UpdateMessagePanel,   EVENTS::SelectedItemsModified );
 }
-
-
diff --git a/pcbnew/tools/pcbnew_control.h b/pcbnew/tools/pcbnew_control.h
index 998b5caeda..a46b3f9d65 100644
--- a/pcbnew/tools/pcbnew_control.h
+++ b/pcbnew/tools/pcbnew_control.h
@@ -59,8 +59,16 @@ public:
     int ZoneDisplayMode( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent );
     int TrackDisplayMode( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent );
     int ViaDisplayMode( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent );
+
+    // Update the view with the new high-contrast mode from the display settings
     int HighContrastMode( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent );
 
+    // Rotate through the available high-contrast modes
+    int HighContrastModeCycle( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent );
+
+    // Layer view presets
+    int ApplyLayerPreset( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent );
+
     // Layer control
     int LayerSwitch( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent );
     int LayerNext( const TOOL_EVENT& aEvent );
diff --git a/pcbnew/tools/selection_tool.h b/pcbnew/tools/selection_tool.h
index 85f1cb34ea..9baf9ffce1 100644
--- a/pcbnew/tools/selection_tool.h
+++ b/pcbnew/tools/selection_tool.h
@@ -30,12 +30,12 @@
 #include <memory>
 
 #include <math/vector2d.h>
-#include <project/board_local_settings.h>
-#include <tools/pcb_tool_base.h>
+#include <project/board_project_settings.h>
 #include <tool/action_menu.h>
-#include <tools/pcbnew_selection.h>
-#include <tools/pcb_selection_conditions.h>
 #include <tool/tool_menu.h>
+#include <tools/pcb_selection_conditions.h>
+#include <tools/pcb_tool_base.h>
+#include <tools/pcbnew_selection.h>
 
 class PCB_BASE_FRAME;
 class BOARD_ITEM;