Experience has taught me that if possible the following criteria will combine to make an excellent marine aquarium, while minimising the maintenance aspects.

• Mixed Fish / Coral Reef Aquarium
• Maximum water capacity for space available
• Deeper / wider tank for larger viewing area
• Silent running -  no water or kit noise
• Enclosed lighting, both Metal Halide and multiple new T 5 fluorescent's.
• Tank weir to be mirrored to mask flow activity.
• Aquarium hood to be externally vented to minimise heat build up from Halides.
• Dual water inlets and outlets for maximum flow rate.
• Single, low velocity, high flow rate power head  for randomising tank water movement.
• Primary filtration / seascape via ‘live rock’
• External sump for mechanical filtration and skimming, refugium using ‘Miracle Mud’, water mix and level management, master circulation pumps, water heating and water sterilisation via UV unit.
• Hydro Carbonate Calcium reactor
• External power management for all electrical kit, lighting and water circulation.
• External cooling  via a dedicated Chiller unit.
• Automated sump water top up system.
• Integrated saltwater mix and top up system.
• Integrated waste water drainage and overflow system.

Plus: The aquarium was to be  piece of fine furniture.