I had originally purchased this to use for my microwave, but the height matches my kitchen counter so closely and the top looked so classy, I didn't want to cover it up with the microwave. I will find another solution for that. I have Origami shelves and these were portable as well. The portability (folding smaller for storage) was one strong reason for purchase. If I found I didn't need it for a time, I could just fold it for storage and it would take a lot less space.The top of the unit is blonde, like the general color of my cabinets. The side bar is great for a dishtowel. I was able to clear my counter of my large Crock pot and put it on the shelf. There was still room for the coffee maker and some canned goods on that shelf. I am able to use the second shelf for more canned goods and larger bags of chips, large boxes of cereal and nuts.If I needed another one of these, I would not hesitate to buy again from this company. Oh, and they protected it in shipping, so there was no damage. It was pretty easy to put together, although it would have been nice to have another set of hands to flip the top over to secure it. But I managed by myself with a little extra effort.Update: I've had this for over a year and it has held up really well!