Re-decorating my Tank

[DubaiNewbie]

Hey everyone,

I have a planted tank that I bought 3 days ago.

I was very excited to get going with the tank so immediately filled it and threw everything in that the previous owner had.

Since then I've done some research and thinking and would very much like to change the whole set up of the tank.

In picture one you can see that the tank has soil all over the bottom and a huge wood center piece which really obscures the center of the tank.

I'd like to create something similar to picture two with the rocks and plants and more room for the fish. I'd also like to place some sand/gravel through the middle as well for a contrast of colours on the floor with lots of small green and red plants.

Could you please advise if I should do this with the fish and water in or do I need to drain the tank?

Thanks

[DubaiNewbie]

These are the pics

[DubaiNewbie]

Could a Moderator remove this post please as I have since completely overhauled the tank so the post is no longer relevant

Many Thanks