Honestly - just for resale. We've never had one before so aren't dead set on it. Our pool is big enough that we can lose the space for the baja shelf. In our area everyone recommends one - whether for looks or lounging, not too sure. My kids are middle school age and won't really be playing on it like younger ones might. Maybe we will put the cheap plastic chairs for grandparents? So they can sit comfortably and not necessarily swim? Really not sure.That is something to consider, you must first think of what purpose your shelf is being designed for.