Start with the style that fits your tank
Iwagumi
Stone-led, spacious, and focused on rhythm. Use one dominant stone with supporting stones, open negative space, and restrained planting.
Nature aquarium
Layer wood, stone, mosses, stems, and rooted plants to suggest a natural scene. The strongest layouts guide the eye toward a focal point rather than filling every corner.
Dutch-style
Plant-led and full of color, texture, and organized groups. It rewards trimming and careful spacing more than dramatic rockwork.
Nano and shrimp scapes
Small tanks need small-scale details. Choose fine textures, keep the hardscape proportional, and leave enough open floor for livestock and maintenance.
Choose hardscape by role
- Focal stone: the largest visual anchor and the first piece to place.
- Support stones: smaller companions that reinforce direction and scale.
- Wood: creates movement, branches, height, and natural shelter.
- Substrate: establishes slope, planting depth, and the visual path through the tank.
Composition principles that work
- Build toward a focal point rather than placing the largest object in the exact center.
- Use height in the back and open space in the foreground to create depth.
- Repeat angles and textures so the materials feel connected.
- Leave access for glass cleaning, trimming, water changes, and equipment.
- Photograph the dry layout before adding substrate and water.
Shop the layout, not just the material
At the Convoy flagship, seeing stone and wood in person makes it easier to compare shape, texture, scale, and fit. Bring your tank dimensions or a photo of the aquarium you are building.
Choose plants from the plant database, read the setup guide, or visit the Convoy flagship hub.