Input requested. Making a bench seat out of a sump.
 

We just installed our new 125 gallon grow tank (I cringe to call it a display tank yet) in our main bow window. As a result, there is no room for a sump directly below the tank as the tank is on a ledge.

So in order for there to be a sump, it would have to sit on the carpet directly in our living room. Not gonna happen. But what if we built a bench seat AROUND the sump so that it wasn't intrusive and could be multi functional?

Any immediate red design flags? Possible issues? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

the first thing that comes to my mind is, it would need to be pretty darn tall to accommodate a skimmer( if you planned on running one)....probably too tall to be a comfortable bench height.....what about a decorative plant box or something similar?........something that could be a little taller?.....

Fortunately the tank is approximately 4 feet off the ground, so the bench would have to be taller so the monkeys could see into the tank. With the 3 children and all of their friends, more seating is a welcome addition.

A LFS here did just as u want. The skimmer section would be like raised end table with remove able top.

Pm mr Alberta. He may give u pics

Will do, thanks! We were thinking of having the bench on a hinge for easy access via the top.

Make sure to include a build thread. :D

I think we are going to go with a 55 gallon that is 28 inches high ( my old discus grow tank) and it should accommodate any skimmer easily. Now to decide whether to build or but a skimmer, and if so, what kind.