My DIY Stand Attempt

[Porkfat]

Just made a new stand for my future 20g nano I intend to build (as soon as funds allow). I only have a smaller tank ~10g atm but, I thought I'd plan a little ahead and start the process from the ground up so to speak. I really don't have much space and I never intended on having a sump or anything but a desktop setup really, but in this hobby things tend to get ummm.... a bit larger and more complicated over time. With this stand I'll probably be able to fit a small sump into the equation and hopefully keep my tank stuff as self contained as possible.

I figured I'd post my first attempt at a DIY stand, hopefully get some good feedback. Don't have the tank yet so I have plenty of time to change things. Heck if anything I could scrap this one and use it as a TV stand.

First a few stats:

25.5" W x 18" L x 31" H

Drawer is full extension 18.5" W x 12.5" L x 5" D
Not sure is I'm going to add a cabinet door (hope I can get some opinions on that)

Interior Dimensions (under drawer): ~ 24" W x 16" L x 21" H

Framing is made of 2 x 2

Wrap is 3/8" Ply

Top is 3/4" Laminate

The hole for the chords and stuff in the back (2") is raised so you can't see it from a viewing height.

The hole on the top surface is 5.5" x 1.25" big enough for (5) 3/4" PVC and hopefully enough room for future plumbing.

Whole thing has 3 coats of Minwax Polycrylic

Now pics:

Finished

From the Begining

Frame Complete

Wrapped

Drawer and Top In

Front View

 

[CarlaW]

I like it!!!!! I especially like the drawer, that will come in handy down the road. Oh, and welcome to RF, good to have you around!

 

[NaH2O]

Welcome to Reef Frontiers!!!

I love it! For my 12 gallon nano, I have a similar stand (it was a microwave cart). The drawer is awesome, and I keep my algae magnet, towels, net, paper, etc in it. The underside has a shelf for books, which I use for that purpose. If you do add a sump, then whether or not you add a door to the cabinet would depend on a couple of things. One, if you don't want to look at it, and two...if heat might be an issue with the sump area closed off.

Looks great!!

 

[wrightme43]

I like the finish on the wood. It looks cool. thanks for sharing the photos.

 

[Porkfat]

Thanks for the kind comments everyone

Nikki, ahh yes thankyou for reminding me. Heat always a constant battle with me, without a chiller getting temps below 80 is a challenge over here. If I decided to make a door I'd probaly have to cut another hole to fit an exaust fan or something. Hmmm... decisions decisions...