Sharp corners are the only problem I have with this coffee table. People have commented that it easily tips without counter balance, but I have not had a problem. I love that I can have 3 different table heights, and that it locks in place. To unlock, just lift once more past the top height and it easily pushes down to the closed position. My 9 year old Grandson sat on the corner of the open table top and it didn't tip, but I was afraid he'd bend the hinges, so asked him not to do that anymore. The storage area has ample space for my lap top, paperwork, and a few other miscellaneous items. About 3-4 inches (that's a guess). Overall, glad I bought this table!