It isn’t as dark as the crate in the picture and the paint job is patchy in places. The predrilled holes to attach the top were put in too low so we had to redrill them to keep the top attached. All of the pieces were covered in a sparkly dust so it needed cleaning before assembly. The instructions weren’t the easiest to read, the step for inserting the wooden pieces is on the page telling you what’s included. I do like it put together, it’s nice in the living room and a good size. I love the double opening doors on the side. We put the latch further up to reduce bending down. It’s sturdy, spacious, and I’m hopeful my daxies like it.