The actual fire pit looks exactly like the picture. It has a very used finish (almost used/rusted) which is ok except I feel was too much of a contrast from the cover (which is painted black). I feel that both parts should have matched to make it look like they went together. Also the box that it was shipped in was busted and parts of the rim were protruding from it so actually it was good it had a worn look as it wasn't noticeable if it was damaged in transit. The actual design was perfect and the others issues are easy fixes just feel a bit disappointed that the cover and pit didn't match.