This is a solid, sturdy table. I love the fact that it's solid wood, and the assembly feels solid (I actually put the table together on my own, even though the instructions recommend two people, and it was manageable, though it's true the pieces are heavy). The top of the table is more distressed than appears in the close-up photos. I'm going to try stripping the stain to see if I can get more of the natural wood color to come through.