Black Pipe and Stair Tread Bookshelves

So many things about these I dig: (a) basically bombproof and no way the stair treads are going to bow under load; (b) that kind of r-shaped pipe configuration pushes the uprights to the back so they are less obtrusive, but they still serve as built-in bookends; (c) easily configurable, like check the DVD player shelf under the TV; (d) very manageable as a DIY project, hardest part is planning out the measurements and drilling the shelf holes in the right places, barrier to entry is time-and-effort, not skill; (e) even though they look like they float they rest on the floor, and only attach to the wall up top (although I’m sure you could do a true floating design), so minimal impact on the house if you ever move and want to take ‘em with you; (f) I think they look cool.

All that said, once I committed to these I had to white-knuckle the price because they’d were more expensive than I thought they’d be! Each 4’ stair tread is like $17 and each “r” pipe thingie (two pipes, an elbow, a tee) is like $16. Plus a bit extra for the pieces for resting on the floor and attaching to the wall.