I also was looking at west elm for a buffet/ sideboard and found the shipping to be way too much. This collection is shipped for free and was here in 2 Days! The box was a little beat up, but everything inside was intact. Assembly time took about 2 hours. I absolutely love this buffet! I could stare at it all day long, it ties together my whole living room. I have to say, I think Id be just as pleased with this one as the west elm version. Doors and drawers close flush, drawers could have a smoother track, but all in all not too bad at all. Great bang for your buck!