Here is my old low tech tank, it had star grass, java fern, anubias, crypts, xmass moss and some rotala in the back. i used jbl floraPro caped with gravel. I also had 2 or3 t8s i can't remember.
To clean drift wood that has algae all over it, scrub as much of it off as you can and then put it in boiling water for a few minutes.
In terms of a tank where you see 3 sides that tyou want presentable, maybe try an island style aquarium.
Check out these links.
http://www.leonardosreef.com/2012/09/de ... -aquarium/ (scroll down and have a read.)
http://www.thegreenmachineonline.com/ar ... en-machine