I read all the reviews and knew what I was getting into. Took my time on assembly and didn't tighten down until it was all together. It's exactly what it looked like in the pictures. We love them! The only negative I have is one of the seats has a very slight wobble feel to it. I'm not sure why. Doesn't impact us at all. And both stools needed WD-40 after assembly to keep from squeaking.