I have been scouring Craigslist lately looking for a large vintage filing cabinet (substantial drawer pulls a necessity here). I was inspired by this image I saw on Simply Grove.
I'm sure the metal on this awesome little cabinet was a totally boring color before the owner stripped off the paint. I love the mix of finishes here. It's such an industrial look.
Maybe these off of Boston's cragslist could work? The seller is asking $70 for the pair. There could be some industrial awesomeness hiding under all that old black paint.
The idea of stripping paint from old metal reminds me of this project from Martha. Just a little paint thinner or stripping gel, a toothbrush and some elbow grease to turn old tea and biscuit tins into lovely office supply storage.