Really amazing piece. I considered staining it but when I opened the box to look at the trunk it was really nice unfinished. Good quality wood. I know some expressed concern about the bottom being a false bottom rather than wood, I always consider in cases like this what real value would a full piece of wood add other than weight. Since I am going to use this to store my yoga supplies (bolsters, blankets, mats, weights) I don't have need of a wood bottom and appreciate that the overall weight is less because of that one thing. The bottom is reinforced by cross bars so you are not left to the mercy of just a lightweight bottom. May still finish it, it is already sanded smooth and wouldn't be any trouble to stain.