For the last 4 years I've lived within a stone's throw of 6 major railroad tracks. Some might call it loud, I call it homey. And the result is that there's an amazing amount of debris and old parts lying around for the taking. (Don't worry, we asked). Even though I've conjured up all sorts of ways to put those parts to use, making a wine rack was never one of them... until now!
This wine rack comes from Rail Yard Studios and has a serious amount of history behind its parts. The center pole is a railroad tie dating back to the early 1900's and the metal bits aren't far behind it. Although you'll need to email for the price of this piece, I think with a little bit of scavenging you might be able to recreate the look at home without too much trouble.
Do you like the look or would you be afraid of breaking your bottles on a surface of this nature? I think it's a fun look that makes a statement though, although you should make sure it's anchored to the wall or floor if you make one at home.
You can find more salvaged railroad pieces over at Rail Yard Studios.
(Image: Rail Yard Studios)
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This looks awesome, but I would caution people against using salvaged railroad ties for home decor items. My wife and I looked into it and learned that most railroad ties are coated with creosote which the EPA has classified as a probably carcinogen.
I too enjoy the whistle of trains in the background and do find it homey and not loud. Trains remind me of days gone by and how my great grandfather worked in a railyard. We stayed in a little house on the river near Portland OR and a train passed several times a day and while most found it annoying my kids and I loved watching those powerhouses pass each time! Beautiful use of "debris."
I agree, although beautiful to look at I would never use it. Both my father and I have worked on the railway and I wouldn't even use old ties as a retaining wall in my yard. It has so many chemicals in it it's disgusting. The amount of tar that is used to coat them is ridiculous. I think I'll pass on this.
Ditto on the chemical soak...also the same with wooden pallets. May be cute and rustic and cheap but definitely not safe.
These were created from ties that were culled out as seconds BEFORE the creosote process. No creosote on these! Check out their website for more info: http://www.railyardstudios.com/environment_and_safety