Clean, streamlined design really rocks the modernist vibe.  The rounded edges are a huge plus and makes the piece look much more expensive than it is.  The design of the legs are a real plus.  The veneer is subtle  - does not scream laminate and looks great with the vintage pieces in the room.  Not completely pleased with the panels on the back but they are needed for stability.  Speaking of which, recommend securing the bookcase to the wall.    I have arthritis so a friend assembled it for me - he had it completely put together in under 20 minutes with no aggravation.  This is doing the trick for the heavy architecture books in my office while I continue to search for a "real" mid-mod bookshelf.