Custom Nano Cube Setup – DIY + Build Log. Follow along!

RealReefer

RealReefer

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No matter how many systems I’ve built over the years, I always find myself drawn back to the charm of nano tanks. There’s just something about them, something irresistible.

Maybe it's the challenge of perfecting a tight ecosystem in a small space. Maybe it's the way every coral placement, every inch of aquascape, actually matters.
Or maybe it's just how personal and hands-on these tanks feel. Like a living art piece on your desk, a shelf or a DIY inspired cabinet.


This latest build is a return to that feeling.

⚙️ The Build:​

  • Tank: 400mmx400mmx300mm AIO cube.
  • Cabinet: DIY
  • Lighting: Still shopping.
  • Flow & Filtration: Minimal but efficient; letting simplicity lead. Filter sponge, Seachem Matrix, Carbon, minimal water changes.
  • Aquascape: Clean, open layout center piece.
  • Theme: Coral forward. BTA'S, softies and maybe some LPS with big visual impact.
  • Livestock Goals: Possibly a solo showstopper or a small pair. Keeping it peaceful and balanced.
There’s a certain magic in building something small that’s still packed with life, color, and character. Nano tanks force us to think differently about stability, about design, and about what we really want out of our reef.

If you’ve ever considered starting one… maybe this is your sign.

I’ll be posting updates as I progress. Feel free to follow along or drop your own nano inspirations here. Let’s see what kind of beauty we can build in just a few litres.

:m112:RealReefer
 
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Hey everyone! Small update

So I've started with the aquarium cabinet.

20250822_111240.jpg



As you can see from the picture, I'm going with OSB3 board.(Oriented Strand Board)

Here's my reasons:

I want to do something different, maybe unconventional? But i think this cabinet can compliment a room beautifully if done right.

We usually think of OSB as construction-grade material, not something you’d proudly display in your living room. But can you appreciate its raw, organic texture and unique visual character? I can! :m06: It’s not trying to look like fancy hardwood or glossy 2k furniture, and that’s exactly what makes it stand out.

It has this wild, chaotic pattern that gives off a modern industrial vibe depending on how you finish it. The texture is super tactile, kind of like natural wood gone abstract. In the right setting, it becomes a design feature rather than just a structural material. I hope i can achieve this :m16: It plays really well with other natural elements like plants, metal, stone and brings warmth without feeling polished or fake.

By the way, I have none of these elements currently in any room :m38: My home is really not feeling homey at this point in time.

My plan and the process: Black Wash + Sand + Marine Seal

1. Paint the OSB with matte black water-based paint.
  • A couple of even coats to get into the texture filling it in completely.
2. Once dry, I'll lightly sand back the surface
  • This step is where the magic happens. The wood flakes start to pop through the black, creating this textured, high-contrast look. Almost like camo-meets-woodgrain. It gives depth and visual interest without looking overworked.
3. Sealing the whole thing with a clear marine-grade polyurethane
  • This will not only protect it from inevitable water splashes, but also enhances the texture, deepens the color, and gives the surface a soft sheen or glossy finish depending on the type of sealer used.

    Not sure if i should go with a matt/satin or glossy finish. I kind of like both. Decisions, decisions. What look would you prefer?

:m112:RealReefer
 
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I used the Rust Oleum spray paint for my stand, which I'm very impressed with (the paint more than the stand). It might help with your textured look as well. I like the semi gloss black.
 
Hello. It's me again. I managed to find a gap between work to put together the cabinet. Let's call it lunchtime workings :m16: All went really well and I'm pleased with the outcome so far.

Hope you like it too.

20250916_101546.jpg


:m112:RealReefer
 
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Hello followers. It's Friday! I have a new update. Cabinet is coming along nicely.

Things to do:
- Drill the holes for the door hinges
- Wood inserts for adjustable cabinet feet
- Apply a couple of clear coat sealer.
- Hang the door
- Attach a door handle
- Building the AIO tank

Some more pics.

20250919_121558.jpg


20250917_182828.jpg


:m112:RealReefer
 
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Helo Reefers :m112: :m112:

Weekend update. 2 coats clear sealer applied. Will do more coats once dry.

I masked all the edges and finished them with another black coat before sealing. Leveling feet also installed.

IMG_20250921_111133.jpg


IMG_20250921_111232.jpg


IMG_20250921_160650.jpg


Next shot will be with the door attached

:m112:RealReefer
 
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Hey fellow reefers,

Quick update on the build. The cabinet is finally finished! Not much progress over the past week since work had me tied up, but we're moving forward again. Next step: ordering the glass. I’ve decided to go with 6mm bright polished, optic white. Should give the tank a really clean, modern look. While I wait on the glass, I’m planning out the overflow design. Still need to finalize the layout and get it laser-cut in black Perspex (acrylic). The plan is to go with a center overflow and dual returns, one on each side for balanced flow. I’m also adding two small chambers before each return section to house the heaters. Because the tank is only 300mm tall, I’ll be using smaller heaters. Most 300W models are just too tall. I want everything to stay neatly tucked inside the back AIO with nothing sticking out. Clean and minimal is the goal here!


I’ll keep you all posted as things progress. Happy reefing!

:m112:RealReefer
 
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icechilli said:
Can't you lay the heaters horizontally ?

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Click to expand...
No, the tank is a maximum of 400mm wide side to side. Once the back chambers are installed, I'll have +-100mm of width remaining in the center, at the planned overflow. The dual return chambers will be at least 100mm wide each. A 200W heater should fit nicely in an upright position.
 
Sounds like a plan - also don't want fluctuations in water level

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