Considering upgrade and going sumpless

[Aquattro]

I'd guess you need thicker than 1/2" if you want no bracing at all!

Overflow boxes can be very small, or don't use one at all. Just have a single pipe plumbed through the upper back. Less unsightly than equipment hanging off the back.
Use filter socks to keep the sump clean.

My system is virtually silent, no sound of water at all. This is using a durso style pipe.
Gas exchange can be handled fine without a sump, but it does help.
Plumbing is hidden and honestly, if it's set up properly, it's never going to leak.

Lots of people run without it, but personally, I would never even consider it. My tank is clean, quiet and has no gear visible. I couldn't handle heaters and skimmers all hanging in the tank.