Assembly was a little tedious (I was told!), but worthwhile! Solid, sturdy, and lovely looking. The top looks and feels like wood even though it’s not, and actually functions better as a work surface as laminate anyway. You don’t have to use the crisscross shelves, but know that you will only have one shelf that fits directly horizontally otherwise, as shown in pic. The holes allow for that shelf to be lowered or highered as well. Stools and gothic window frame basket hanger were purchased on wayfair as well and love them too.