The contrast of the dark top with the off-white bottom is striking, and the design of the desk is lovely.  It looks exactly like it does in the photos.  Although we did not assemble it ourselves, the man who did the assembly didn't have any problems.  The many and various pieces were clearly and correctly marked, and it took him about 2 to 2-1/2 hours to assemble it.  The desk arrived when promised, and there was no damage.  The only thing that is a negative for me is that I thought it was longer than it actually is, but I can only blame that on myself.  All-in-all, I am very, very pleased with this purchase.