It looks great but it isn't very functional as a side table. The top isn't necessarily parallel to the ground (it depends on the one you get) and since it is woven there are dips in spots which makes things that are set on it a bit wobbly. After one day I already had a lamp fall off of it. As an accent piece it looks great, adds visual interest to the room. It would be fine as an occasional stool when there aren't enough seats for everyone. The cats LOVE it!