Solid and relatively easy to assemble due to the way it is constructed. I did it myself, but it would be much easier with two people as they recommended. Was looking for an enclosed shelf that was lower and wider than a standard bookcase. This fit the bill perfectly. It is solid wood, but a softer pine so we will see how it holds up. Finish is a bit glossier than I expected and thick, but I think that will protect the pine. It did flake off in very small pieces when screwing in some of the cam lock pins, but nothing that shows once assembled. I am happy with this piece.