Love this simple little TV stand! I got it in walnut and the color looks great. No - it doesn't have a clear coat / polyurethane finish but I like the matte hard wood. I didn't think it was too difficult to put together, it took me about 3 hours by myself. Would have definitely been easier with 2 people for some steps but my fiance was busy and I didn't want to wait to have my TV stand. Only concern when assembling was that there aren't pilot holes for the screws so I was nervous I was going to split the wood but in the end didn't have any issues. If you're looking for a nice midcentury modern look with a reasonable price I don't think you'll be disappointed by this piece!