Wanted a solid wood table with drawers to use in our front entry. this is a great piece. i stained it with with a java gel stain and a matte poly finish. this was my first time staining and finishing. there was no blotching or places where the stain didn't take. i'm sure i made some rookie mistakes. in any case, i still think it came out great. i decided not to use the bottom shelf and it looks great. good buy and great quality.