I did opt for a Fuge in the middle with 2 layers of floss and a thing of carbon. Fuge is fairly effective and I am blanking on the name of the light but it seems to be growing chaeto like crazy. Definitely keeping nitrates and phosphates down
Cut foam for frag plug placement and acclimation
Replaced the LED strips with AI Primes
Added an MP40
Replaced return pump output with a RFG
Added a cheap HOB skimmer
Created a mesh lid
Added a IM intank UV to help with dinos
Decorated with some large shells and sea glass/bottles my mom collects on the beach
Overall I like the setup dispite having detritus buildup in the return chamber and a few issues (aiptasia/dinos). I would recommend a foam wall to all the DIY reefers!