I'm actually starting a similar project myself for my first set-up. All I've done so far is to rip my wall out, but I've come up with a couple things to think about...
My aquarium is 48" across, and the space it fits into is about 50". Both these dimensions are out of necessity, but it works out good once I realized that I'd need space on either side for piping (drain, return, CL flow). But the width/thickness of a 2X4 (2X3? cheaper...) may give you enough clearance if your piping goes inbetween the frame and the drywall. I guess I'm just trying to say "plan for pipes". You could always run a standpipe up through the bottom.
I may keep the stand platform 50" and put the piping through it, because I want the stand to be attached to as much framing as possible.
As for the top and bottom, I'm leaving a foot over the tank, and the tank is 32" high. That gives me (I hope) enough space for lights, and the tank is at a great hight for viewing in a chair. Then I'll build the sump to fit in whatever I have left. The equipment will be in the empty wall to the side (support column inbetween).
Other than that, I'm trying to squeeze the tank in as tightly as I can for extra support, as it's kinda thin, therefore easily tipped...
As for trim, that's all up to your tastes... standard base trim cut like a picture frame, something like that. I don't want any trim so I'm trying to figure that out. I want the tank glass (acrylic) to be as flush as possible with the drywall. Cant figure out the thinnest material to blend from the drywall, over the double 2X4 stand, then about an inch and a half over the acrylic. The thicker the stuff, the more the tank will have to be recessed into the wall, know what I mean? And no frame. But that would be easier.
Try to visualize, or draw out, where the framing, drywall, and tank and stand all line up. Will the stand have to be built with lip to fit over the drywall for a flush look? Or will the tank be recessed into the wall a little bit.
I plan on painting the wood above it (everywhere, actually) with a good epoxy paint. There's probably going to be alot of moisture in mine because both sides of the tank are in-wall! Most people have the open top of the tank in a separate room, but not this baby (18inch thick wall). Viewable from two ajoining rooms.
Don't forget about ventilation with something like this. It doesn't take much moisture to mess up an unfinished 2X4. Maybe deck polyurethane would be alright... cheaper...
My sump/fuge will also be right underneath. I plan on mounting a fluorescent fixture underneath the tank for the refugium. Some kind of insulation so it doesn't heat the tank... or maybe that would be good? Ventilation!
Um... lessee... other things.. I know there will be lots more to come.
I'm not sure there is a "best" way to do somthing like this. But my major concerns are:
Plenty of quiet, hidden ventilation
Moisture protection and removal (ie ventilation)
A secure stand/tank
Good access to all equipment (removable panels, etc.)
And of course, price! (I'm using a food-safe, 100% solids, non-voc two part epoxy over plywood for the bottom and two thin sides to save from buying more acrylic)
There was a good reefslides in the past issues (
part1 ,
part2 ) about the forum members' systems that had alot of in-wall pictures. Check that out for ideas.
Good luck and sorry about my rambling!
