Hey guys, I have question you may or may not be able to guide me on. I was trying to install a gate at the top of the stairs for my kids but there is no wall to attach it to on one side. What someone suggested me do is to build a sturdy bookcase there (we already have a store bought one there now ) so it will be sturdy but doesn't look like a wall. Trouble is I need it to be 16" deep. I was trying to look at the Home Depot but couldn't figure out what woiod would be sturdy enough. My ceiling is 8 feet high but only wanted to make the bookcase about 6 feet high. If I had to make a full height I will. The other thing is is price. I didn't want this to be a lot of money. Hopefully under $100. I like lighter wood also. If anyone has any ideas they can shoot out I would appreciate it. Thanks.

I'm a bit confused by this stair. Isn't there a banister running up the stair. Isn't there a post at the top to support the banister? Why can't you attach the gate to that?

Maybe you can attach or insert a picture of the top of the stair.

Actually, there isn't a banister right now. If I get a chance I will get a picture but it might be awhile. As you go down the stairs there is a wall that only goes down half way leaving the stairs open. When we bought the house last year it didn't have a banister and I haven't had time to put it up. The kids use the wall as a railing on the other side.

You need to put up a banister.

You can use A/C 3/4" pine plywood which is cabinet grade. Or you can use Birch or Oak 3/4" plywood. They all can be stained or painted. If your painting it, use the A/C pine plwywood. For a face frame you can buy 1x2, 3/4" pine if your painting, or the same in Oak or Birch.

This all would be for around a 100 dollars.

Oh, and like Scott said, install that banister darnit.

Thanks for your help guys. :)