This rocker has a very appealing appearance to it with a multi-toned wood finish. The wood grain variation looks natural to me, but be aware that it is not one consistent "shade", if that's what you prefer. It seems to rock smoothly both on an indoor/outdoor rug as well as on a level wood porch or concrete patio, all of which were tested! The seat is fairly shallow (measuring about 18.5"). For reference, I am 5'4" and it edge of the seat hits about 3" prior to the bend of the leg/knee area. But the curved edge of the seat adds to the comfort. Only negative was the TERRIBLE assembly instructions, where several pieces of the chair were not even referenced in the instructions, so be sure to read/plan out assembly BEFORE following the instructions as-written!