Custom Aquarium Systems
FRANCOIS NEO · YOUR AQUARIUMPARTNER
An aquarium designed around your space. A system designed around life.
From a compact reef to a large custom display, we help turn your vision into an aquarium that looks right, supports its inhabitants and remains practical to maintain.
Francois Neo brings together aquarium design, equipment selection and installation planning for homes and businesses. We approach each project as a complete system, with the display and the technical space developed together.
Start with the aquarium you want to live with
The right design begins with your space, the animals you want to keep and the level of care you can commit to. A marine fish display, mixed reef and coral-focused system can require different choices long before the aquarium is filled.
We can discuss custom dimensions, an integrated display or a selected aquarium package adapted to your project. The proposal identifies which elements are custom-made and which are selected from available equipment.
What we plan with you
- Display and placement: dimensions, viewing angles, cabinetry and how the aquarium fits the room.
- Livestock goals: a system concept suited to the intended fish, corals or freshwater inhabitants.
- Technical layout: sump, filtration, plumbing, reservoirs and accessible service space.
- Equipment: lighting, circulation, heating, monitoring and automation where appropriate.
- Aquascaping: visual composition, habitat and room for growth and water movement.
- Project logistics: delivery access, installation sequence and coordination with other trades.
- Long-term care: a practical maintenance approach from the start.
The design scope, equipment and services included are defined in your proposal. Not every project needs the same level of customization.
From idea to a defined project
- Discovery. Share your ideas, photos, available space, livestock goals and budget range.
- Site and feasibility review. We review placement, access and technical requirements. A site visit or input from your contractor may be needed.
- System concept and proposal. We outline the aquarium, technical layout, equipment priorities and scope. Design work and any associated fees are agreed before proceeding.
- Approval and sourcing. Final specifications, pricing, payment stages and lead times are confirmed before orders are placed.
- Installation and startup planning. Delivery, installation and commissioning are coordinated according to the approved scope. Livestock introduction follows system readiness rather than a fixed opening-day promise.
Beautiful on the outside. Accessible behind the scenes.
A cabinet that looks clean still needs room for equipment, ventilation and routine service. We consider access for cleaning, pump removal, water changes and future adjustments, so the design supports daily use as well as the first impression.
For built-in aquariums or new construction, we can discuss the aquarium requirements with your designer or contractor. Structural capacity, dedicated electrical work and building alterations are handled by the relevant qualified professionals.
Location, budget & timing
Based in Lexington, South Carolina. Project coverage, site visits, delivery and installation arrangements are confirmed individually according to location and scope. Remote planning can also be discussed.
Pricing reflects the aquarium dimensions, fabrication, cabinetry, equipment, access and services required. Share a budget range early so we can prioritize the elements that matter most.
Lead times depend on design approval, fabrication and supplier availability. Your proposed schedule is reviewed before the project is confirmed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a fully custom tank?
Not always. A standard aquarium with a carefully planned system may meet your needs. We discuss both approaches according to the space, livestock goals and budget.
Can you work with an existing aquarium or cabinet?
We can assess what can be reused. Suitability depends on the condition, dimensions, load requirements and equipment access; existing components are reviewed before being included.
Does the quote include installation and livestock?
The proposal identifies what is included. Design, equipment, delivery, installation, livestock and ongoing maintenance are itemized or described in the agreed scope.
Can you maintain the aquarium after installation?
We can discuss a maintenance plan based on your location and system. Explore aquarium maintenance.
Tell us what you have in mind
Send your city and ZIP code, photos and dimensions of the proposed location, aquarium inspiration, intended livestock, budget range and preferred timing. If the space is under construction, include any relevant plans.
Prefer email? Email Francois about your project.
An enquiry starts the conversation. Scope, pricing and availability are confirmed before work begins.
Project enquiries are available while AquaStudio Lexington is in preparation. The store is not open to walk-in visitors yet.