I homeschool my daughter in our study, and we often like being comfy on the love seat while we work.  This lift-top coffee table is the perfect solution!  We can store books and supplies in the storage compartment, and have a sturdy desktop to use when it is not in coffee table mode.  It was pretty easy for the two of us to attach the legs with the provided tools and hardware (thankfully, the lift-top hinge is pre-installed).  The gear-style hinge makes a very audible clicking noise as you lift the desk top, and one hearty click when you lower it, but it is a smooth transition and functions beautifully.  Plus it is really good-looking!