Driftwood is not just a color, but in this case, a description of the desk material. The top is not smooth, with many ridges (like perhaps real driftwood), and the sealant has a strong odor. You’d need a pad to write on, and heaven forbid you enjoy tea and a biscuit while at this desk, as I don’t believe you’d be effective at wiping any crumbs from the surface (that might require a vacuum or picking them out). The construction appears solid, although I did not assemble.