1. A dimmable bulb
2. A dimmer (IMO, the hard part)
There are all kinds of dimmers, both manual and automatic (time/temperature/humidity/other-controlled). It might be best to decide exactlywhatyouwant it to do, how often, and when, then begin a search for dimmers with features that fit...
In summation, I think this can be done. However, to do it right, you probably won't save any money in the long run. That's often the thing about DIY—it doesn't save you any money, but you can get exactlywhatyouwant. :)
Not quite, but they really confuse matters with their terminology.
Look at: https://www.zenhabitats.com/collections/zen-habitats-reptile-enclosures
If the description says "Wood Panel" then it's fiberboard/hardboard/masonite.
If the description says "PVC Panel" then it's PVC.
BOTH tall...
Not hidden at all. Current consensus is as large as you can afford, but at least 24" x 24" x 48"H
https://chameleonacademy.com/selecting-chameleon-cage-size/
https://www.chameleonforums.com/care/caresheets/panther/...
I agree that DIY seldom saves any significant money, but you can get exactlywhatyouwant, and usually better quality than pre-fab.
You really don't want to know what I spent on building my beardie box... :rolleyes:
Have you considered a custom DIY build? I would caution it may not save you any money (if my last build is any indicator) but you should be able to get exactlywhatyouwant, and may be able to make use of some of the stuff you have. Maybe 36" x 18" x 48"H or even 36" x 24" x whateverH...