I love these stools. I do agree that they smell a bit like gas fumes when you open them up. I bought 3 chairs and assembled one outside and that one smelled much less like gas. I'd recommend leaving them outside to air out a bit. The swivel and elegant looking chair will look perfect at my counter and they took maybe 20 minutes to assemble. I have always been weary of buying things online because I like to see and touch things. Do not hesitate, these look like the pictures and feel nice. I can't comment much on how they wear just yet. Very pleased with my purchase