This looks fake and slightly cheesy, but I love it nevertheless. I purchased this for a client's children's room and was nervous that the parents would not like it because it was not 'high end', which they were going for. The parents did, however, love this piece and it has become a favorite. There are much nicer stools out there, but this one is a favorite of everyone's. It has plenty of storage and despite being made of less expensive materials, it appears quite durable and is extremely strong. Even empty, this cardboard and poly- based stool is sturdy and held a person of 230 pounds! They told me how much more comfortable they were on this than a sturdy vintage wood French milking stool and have since used it for storytelling and reading before bed. I cannot recommend this enough, but remind people to set their expectations--you are getting a fun, durable piece for very little, but do not anticipate something glamorous or especially classy.