This coffee table is the exact blend of rustic / industrial / modern (I'm sure there's a new word for that) that I was looking for in my space. I don't have children or pets so I can't really comment on issues with the wood - I like the discrepancies in texture because I think it makes the table more interesting. Only one note - I don't think this table works directly on top of hardwood - once we put our rug down, it improved the look SO much. Love the quality, love the color.