I absolutely love the looks this chiminea! It IS rustic,  I was expecting more deep brown tones buts its still a stunning conversational piece.  I bought a fireplace grate to place the wood on. Smoke does come out of the front so just place it in an open area and you'll be fine.  I placed a mat under mine because I  didn't want rust stains on my patio,  but that hasn't even been an issue.  I use a large patio table cover to cover it when it rains...not a perfect fit  but inexpensive and does a good job keeping the rain out.