We recently purchased 2 of these wonderful loft beds for our sons. They share a room (ages almost 8 and 9 yrs) and we had to swap rooms with them as we're expecting another addition to the family. We needed the largest room with the WIC to convert to a nursery. However we didn't want to take away from their square footage when it came to usable floor/play space. These beds were the perfect solution.
They previously had a bunk bed they shared. While that was nice they each craved their own "private" space. As parents we wanted to address their needs/wants, but moving up house-wise to give each their own room, was out of the question at this time.
The only negatives we have experienced is the beds are a bit squeaky (but not obnoxiously so) and the ladder rungs hurt their feet (remedied with grey pipe insulation and silver duct tape which blends pretty nicely with the bed frame). I'm making curtains to hang from tension rods mounted inside the lower portion of the bed frame. They can close off the curtains when they want their own space and time apart.
So far they have been very sturdy. We saved and reused the bunkie boards under their mattresses. We're quite sure that wasn't truly necessary, but was our preference. The finish is neutral and blends very well with kid decor. Underneath we have fashioned reading/play nooks for each of them with a 3x3 cubby for book/toy storage and a bean bag and clip on lamp. They love their new beds and their new individual spaces. We as parents loved the value for the quality of product and the fact we could afford one for each of them. Thanks Wal-mart!