It is the perfect industrial look I was looking for. Took a couple hours to put together. Yes, it is veneer and you have to be very careful when putting it together to not chip it or crack it. The back panel came cracked and and will send for a replacement, but for now its hidden in the lower shelf. It is sturdy put together and although not being real wood, for the price it is a good buy. I might replace the small caster wheels out for some bigger wheels so you can see them better in the design of it.