Tank design
Custom reef tank design and planning
I start with the animals you want and the room you have, then size the system to fit both. I do this for reef keepers in Reno and Sparks.
What we plan together
Footprint & size
We pick tank dimensions, viewing sides and maintenance access to suit the room and your budget.
Habitat
Reef, lagoon, mixed garden or species tank. Whichever it is, I plan the rockscape, sand and open swimming space around what you'll keep. The coral and stocking plan fits into this.
Filtration & sump
Sump layout, skimmer size, refugium and return flow, plus room for equipment you add later. Water and power needs go into plumbing and power needs.
Light & flow
How many light fixtures and where they go, which pumps to use, and the flow patterns that suit the corals you want.
What you get
You get a written design brief with a sketch showing dimensions, an equipment list with options at a few price points, and the order to set everything up. You can buy the gear and set it up yourself, or have me help with setup.
Custom tanks, stands and cabinets
Want a custom tank, stand or cabinet, freestanding or built in? I plan and spec the build and work with the builder you choose. I don't fabricate tanks or build furniture myself. For a built-in tank, I work with local contractors. You hire and pay any contractors directly; I only coordinate.
Floor load
Heavy tanks need a floor that can carry them. For large systems or upper floors, have a qualified professional check the structure before you buy.
Not sure where to start? Book reef tank consulting first.
Common questions
What's included in a reef tank design plan?
You get a written design brief with a sketch showing dimensions, an equipment list with options at a few price points, and the order to set everything up. It covers tank size, sump layout, rockscape, flow and lighting, all planned around the animals you want to keep in your tank.
Can you design a custom tank or stand?
Yes. I can plan and spec a custom tank, stand or cabinet, freestanding or built into a wall, and share it with the builder you choose. I don't fabricate tanks or build furniture myself. For built-in builds, I work with local contractors. You hire and pay any contractors directly; I only coordinate.
Do I need to check my floor before a big reef tank?
Often, yes. Heavy tanks need a floor that can carry them, and the water, rock, sand, glass and stand all add weight. For large systems or upper floors, have a qualified professional check the structure before you buy. Your design brief lists the tank dimensions and equipment to show them.
Tell me about your tank
Share a few details and photos. I'll reply with next steps and a quote.
Start a design