This stool was a good compromise between the rustic look my wife wanted and the architectural look that I wanted.  We purchased (4) for our kitchen counter and since we received them, my kids (age four and two) won't eat anywhere else.  This means no messes at the dining room table and no crumbs all over the floor.  We're very happy with this purchase.  Assembly takes only a few minutes and requires no tools.  The stools look just like the photograph.