Love this desk! I did paint the desk itself black, as well as the shelves, to better match the rest of my decor, but other than that it's great. I'm a film editor, so I spent a lot of time at my desk, and so far I've really enjoyed it! I love how it brings a vertical aspect to the room versus a traditional horizontal desk. I did have a little trouble with the desk piece moving in place at first, but it was because I didn't fully tighten the screws there - so  make so to get those babies tight when you assemble!