For the price I was willing to take the risk and relegate it to the office if I had to. We just bought furniture and needed tables to match our antique mission pieces. It's heavier than expected. Hand rubbed rich and glows. The top has a decorative straight groove two and a half inches from edge intersecting at the corners, with an espresso color. The espresso also is slightly visible down the legs. It ties in nicely with our espresso tv stand. The color is a medium oak with a reddish tint. The only downfall I can find is Charlton Home doesn't make a console to match!