We were looking for a bed that would be "fun" for our 5 yr old. We didn't want him in a bunk bed due to the fact that we also have a 1 1/2 yr old. We settled on this loft bed with the fort underneath. He and his younger brother have enjoyed having a hide out. They put blankets, pillows and a lantern underneath and act like they are in a camp out. 
After reading the reviews we did open the box to let it air out prior to putting it in his room, we should have left it for another day and maybe totally taken it out of the box rather then just opening it. It was smelly but went away after about a day with the window open. It was easy to put together, the directions were GREAT! 
I absolutely would recommend this bed!