I also agree if you can ditch the pedastal you gain because it is wasted space anyway. I started building a box leaning post for mine but scrapped it when it got to heavy. I started with 1/2" ply and 4x4's. It was more of a mock up anyway. Next time i'll do better.
I have no affiliation with these guys but it is a good place to look for ideas.
The picture looks like what you are looking for.
http://www.arrigonidesign.com/
