Much sturdier than I thought it would be.  Pretty high, but was still doable with our 7 1/2 foot ceilings.  Used pool noodle as recommended by others to help with stairs that are tough on the feet.  Created lots of space for my daughters small room, especially having the ladder on the side.  There could have been one more bar on bottom sides to really make it sturdy.  Great piece for the value.