Aquascaping &
Design Consultation
All aquascaping design work is led by Hasan, co-founder of AD Aquatics, with expertise spanning nature aquarium, Iwagumi, Dutch planted and biotope styles. Hasan draws on established aquascaping principles and years of hands-on planted tank experience to create landscapes that are both visually striking and ecologically balanced.
Aquascaping is the art of arranging aquatic plants, rocks and driftwood into a cohesive, naturalistic landscape within an aquarium. Our aquascaping consultation service helps you achieve a stunning, balanced design that grows and evolves beautifully over time.
Our Design Approach
Hasan draws on established aquascaping principles — including nature aquarium style, Iwagumi, Dutch planted and biotope designs — to create a layout that suits your taste, tank dimensions and species requirements. Every design considers the golden ratio, depth of field, focal points and long-term plant growth patterns.
What's Included in Aquascaping Consultation
- In-depth discussion of your style preferences and inspiration
- Tank dimension and equipment assessment
- Hardscape material selection (stone, driftwood, botanical)
- Plant species selection and placement plan
- Lighting and CO₂ system specification — see our equipment sizing guide
- Mock layout sketch or mood board
- On-site hardscape installation (if booked)
- Plant sourcing and planting by Hasan
Aquascaping Styles We Specialise In
- Nature Aquarium — inspired by Takashi Amano; lush, naturalistic, harmonious
- Iwagumi — minimalist stone-focused with carpet plants and clean negative space
- Dutch Planted — structured plant rows with contrasting colours and textures
- Biotope — faithful recreation of a specific natural river, lake or forest habitat
- Hardscape / Rockscape — architectural stone or wood arrangements, minimal planting
- Jungle Style — dense, overgrown, layered planting with a wild aesthetic
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you redesign an existing aquarium?
Yes. Hasan can assess your current setup and redesign the aquascape — whether repositioning hardscape, replanting, or a full reset. Livestock are handled safely throughout any reset process.
Do you provide a design plan before installation?
For larger projects we provide a sketch layout or digital mood board so you can approve the design concept before physical installation begins.
Is aquascaping included in maintenance plans?
Basic plant trimming and care is included in Standard plans. Full aquascaping work — repositioning hardscape, replanting, seasonal redesigns — is included in the Premium plan.
What equipment do you recommend for planted tanks?
For lighting we typically specify Chihiros, Twinstar or Fluval Plant 3.0 LED depending on tank size and plant demands. For CO₂ we use Aquario Neo or UP Aqua inline diffusers with JBL or Tropica pressurised systems. Substrate choices include ADA Amazonia, Tropica Aquarium Soil or Fluval Stratum depending on water source and species requirements.
Let's design your dream aquascape.
Free initial consultation with Hasan — available by phone or in person.