A pony wall is a short wall that does not extend from the floor to the ceiling. It is often used as a room divider, to separate large open areas, or to provide privacy in bathrooms. Pony walls can also be used as guards on stairs or balconies, or to support overhanging countertops. The top of a pony wall is often finished with a wood cap, which can serve as a storage space or counter. Pony walls are sometimes referred to as "half walls," "stem walls," "short walls," or "cripple walls". They are different from knee walls, which are generally intended to support something such as a countertop, handrail, or rafter. While knee walls have an architectural purpose within the home, pony walls are more of an interior design choice to separate a room.