These are sturdy little shelves when used to hold lighter objects that you might want to display on a wall...obviously if you are choosing a floating shelf, you arent planning to load them up with heavy weight.  The finish on the shelves is a very slick and shiny - clean lines and fit a modern decor well.  One unique use Ive found was to adhere carpet scraps (in a pretty way) to the surfaces, then hang the shelves like stair steps up a wall - now my kitty has his own highway and loves the different heights to observe from!  Lots of uses for these shelves!