When these first arrived I wasn't overjoyed.. As someone who generally buys antiques, I prefer real distressing rather than the all-too-symmetrical distressing of a manufactured piece. I also thought they were a little too clunky.. I bought 2 for a counter height breakfast bar and they didn't easily move across the floor so I had to lift each stool to pull it out.. Also, I felt the color was a wee bit too red for my taste. However, I thought I'd hold off on returning them until I got some other furnishings into the apartment and I must say what I chose has helped make the color work better in the room (open concept kitchen/living area) and they've really grown on me. Is it the most comfortable stool..? No. but it's fine for its purpose and I like the adjustable height and the back rest. They arrived well packaged and in 2 pieces each so very simple to assemble. I would highly recommend buying 8 magic coasters for the feet so they glide more easily across the floor.