I would like to start growing soon and I intend to possibly buy an AG system or possibly making my own rubbermaid-type system.

The only problems I have are smell and space. I could make the rubbermaid deal like this one but I am scared as to what will happen when the plants inevitably get huge. What are some ways to keep the plants short while also being able to harvest them?

Also, if I do buy an AG or make a rubbermaid system, what could I do to conquer the smell?

put the system somewhere like in a closet with a air freshener to help the smell, and if you do it the same size as the one in the pictures you showed, than that should be enough space.