Had seen this island online for awhile before I finally purchased it.  Wasn't sure I wanted to spend the money, but boy, am I happy I did.  Yes, it took some time to assemble, but once we did (and I would definitely use two people to do it), and once we put it in place in my kitchen it has given me so much more counter space (I am basically using it to extend my counter) and made working in my kitchen alot simpler.  There is ample room to store my KitchenAid mixer on the bottom shelf (one of my priorities), as well as other kitchen appliances.  The wood is a little darker than the picture shows on my computer (not a problem for me) and the stainless is more "antique-y" than pictured.  But not enough to make a difference for me.  It actually makes it a bit warmer and not so "stainless-steel cold".  Extremely sturdy and super functional.