It’s real wood which was a nice surprise. Some assembly is required but it’s not to bad. Took my husband and I about 2 hours to assemble. It’s gorgeous. BUT a the drawers are not measured exactly correct to fit into the rails system so it grinds occasionally and doesn’t open smoothly. This is a bummer and constantly annoying me but I will most likely keep it. It’s a minor annoyance for a lovely piece that holds all I need it to.