When I think Coffee table I envision the top larger than the carcase. By making a larger width frame for the top, you can do several things.....



1) Allow the frame to "overhang" the inside enough to conceal the lights.



2) Allow the top frame to have a recessed drawer key lock to latch the door shut. While keylock is not necessary, it is an attractive solution to a necessary latch method.







The top could be piano hinged to one side with optional lid braces to hold it open.





The carcase could/should be framed to have windows as well. Set up from the floor to prevent the inevitable poop in the crevice look.



Beveled glass??? would be way sharp!!



A thicker (than standard 3/4" top would allow a rectangular opening with a 1 - 1.5" wide lip, then the glass is secured with four pieces making a picture frame, screwed from below.



To hide wires, "build" one or more of the vertical 3/4" stiles from two 3/8" thick pieces with slots cut in the faces to be glued together. Make it over-sized and plane down to final thickness after gluing. Also, make it 6" too long to allow for planer snipe near the end.





A drawer under the cage would be a GREAT addition, also would allow another "door" to access a compartment with thermostat and other electrical controls. Lights could be wired to touch sensor





Sounds like a fun project and feel free to contact me directly for details on what I'm describing or additional design help.
-----
Thanks,





Dave Colling



www.rainbows-r-us-reptiles.com







0.1 Wife (WC and still very fiesty)

0.2 kids (CBB, a big part of our selective breeding program)



LOL, to many snakes to list, last count (05/26/2009):

36.51 BRB

29.42 BCI

And those are only the breeders



lots.lots.lots feeder mice and rats

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