This is a beautiful desk, first of all, which is why it got any stars.  It arrives in one million pieces-- I am not kidding when I say there are absolutely no pre-assembled parts.  This was frustrating to me, because it is more expensive than others, and typically that means it would be a little more assembled.  The quality of the desk does not warrant the increased price over other desks of similar stature, and I was disappointed to see the entire desk is like plywood.  The desktop itself is wood, but the rest is not very quality and I question how long it will last.  If you are spending $500, pick a different desk.