It’s exactly what I thought it would be based on photos posted by other consumers.  I love it!  It really is beautiful.  It is also heavy.  I have not hooked up our tv yet so I can not verify if you can operate receivers w/o opening the drawers. If you can’t decide whether or not to make this purchase, then I would suggest you to go ahead and do it.  I was the same way and I am very happy I did.  Happy shopping!