This desk is just what I need. Not too big and not too small. The wood is thick, heavy particle board with the wood grain overlay so it is smooth and clean. It took about 4-5 hours for 2 people to put the whole thing together with just a hammer and screwdriver. There were some weird parts like where the front facing meets the top part there is a small gap that looks like its not intentional, but you could fit cords through or you could ignore it like I have. The "pencil" drawer can be placed on either the right or left side. If you were waiting to paint an office or room until this arrived, there are multiple paint swatches that look great, ranging from beiges to greys. Would definitely recommend, especially for the price.