These would have to be the prettiest stools ever, no hiding this away in the closet.  If I was lucky enough to have one it would be a side table beside our white sofa.  Designed by Marcia Scott, these kitset stools are made from MDF and each panel has a different hand stenciled design.  Buy it from Eon for NZ$360. Not quite in your budget, then if you are handy with wood, you could make your own and decorate it anyway you wanted.