We have seen several DIY builds on Biotope One but this terrarium is an exceptional build. Built by David Hermans from rough cut lumber and other materials. You can see that it is an unorthodox shape and extraordinary design. From start to finish you can tell that thought was put into the project. Lighting and ventilation were all accounted for into the design. The lower paludarium area is a nice touch that really adds to the enclosure.
The lumber was collected and dimensions were cut to size for the appropriate pieces.
They were ran through a planer and sanded for a perfect finish.
The frame was put together and a composite sheet was made to cover the framework. The sheet was nailed to the frame and the heads were puttied in preparation for a layer of sealer to keep moisture from causing damage to the wood.
Additional parts were assembled and then the sanding was done to make everything nice and even.
The even surfaces allowed for the backside to be installed.
After the interior was painted the exterior was put together to form a solid surface of wood.
The wood gets sanded and prepared for a finish. The wooden base is made and sanded for finish.
Here you can see the top parts and lower front covers created.
Now that everything has been sealed and prepared the interior is ready to begin work. Expanding foam is used to make the texture and to cover the inner workings.
The lower part will hold water for the vivarium.
The finishing touches are put on the foam to make a natural appearance. There are misters and places to put plants.
The new inhabitants certainly look healthy and happy.
The integrated lighting behind the upper cover help the plants grow and to illuminate the inhabitants.
David Hermans has done an excellent job creating this terrarium setup. He has several other projects he created before this one, although smaller.
The design is quite different from what we are used to seeing in North America especially. His unique design ideas are certainly a refreshing vision into enclosures.
The upright nature of this particular enclosure makes the most out of limited floor space and the design brings an aesthetic element not often seen in enclosures. He certainly has a keen eye for aesthetics and a great working knowledge of woodworking skill.