The Orleans Kitchen Island W/ Butcher Block Top is a very nice piece. It's very sturdy, well finished and easy to put together. The butcher block top is not a true butcher block top. It is finished with a medium brown stain (they call it caramel) and finished with a clear coating. Do not cut or chop directly on the top. The finish does seem to be fairly durable for everyday use. The legs and frame are either painted or power coated with a distressed finished (silver with black brush marks). I don't know which process they used. Either way, if you scratch or chip the finish on the legs and frame you can touch it up with some silver paint. When assembling, DO NOT TIGHTEN any screws until ALL screws (including the ones going in the top) are properly threaded in their holes. This is the reason people are having trouble assembling this island. Also, start assembling this island on it's side, not upside down. It's easier this way. Took me 30 minutes to assemble by myself (I'm a construction mechanic). Best of all the wife loves it. Happy wife, happy life.