We use this stool in the kitchen, primarily for our children to access higher items.  While the steps are down, it is quite attractive, but the underside of the steps aren't completely painted and while up...unattractive, so I will need to paint this.  It is higher than I anticipated, which is nice! So everyone can use it, with more access than expected. Yet assembly was not easy, and the screw covers are plastic...so the white paint is chipping on these as well.  The metal "stopper" intended to hold the steps up, does not support the weight of the steps, therefore useless.  It is attractive and serves its purpose, I just wish it didn't have "fixer-upper" status!