Whalen Samford Contemporary Computer Desk

It took 15 minutes to unpack all the parts (7) and hardware, 10 minutes to put together. (seriously, it takes longer to un-box than assemble, they really went overboard with protecting the desk--but I'm glad they did) The top part of the desk including the keyboard tray comes pre-assembled, all you have to do is attach the legs and supports. The only tools required are 2 Allen wrenches that are included with the hardware and a Phillips head screwdriver to install the 2 handles on the keyboard tray. Easy-peezy, instructions were great, the parts and hardware are all bagged and numbered, just pay attention to orientation as indicated on the instructions and you'll be fine. It arrived with a touch-up stain pen for the wood parts, but it wasn't required, everything arrived undamaged--again, thanks to some legit packing efforts.I pulled the keyboard tray out and stashed my surge protector strip inside the desk and routed all wires through the provided hole, effectively disappearing my previous rat nest of cords. The only con for me was that I had assumed from the pictures that the legs were a dark grey (which they really should be, it would really set this off), but they are a satin black. That said, it still looks great.There is no escaping the fact that it looks a little modular, but I knew that going in from the pictures.Overall, I received what I anticipated. I would recommend this product for what I paid.

The desk arrived in perfect condition and was easy to put together. I read all of the reviews and was hesitant with the purchase but couldn't be happier. I only gave it 4 stars instead of 5 as I wish they made an additional 2 drawers on the sides of the middle and also due to a large piece of styrofoam that can be difficult to remove from "behind" the installed main drawer. It has a nice industrial look and can be easily dusted for cleaning.

Take a look at the customer images to give you an idea of how this product presented itself out of the box. The keyboard fold-out tray was damaged and several screws were stuck to the magnets of the tray. The particle board where the hinge was supposed to connect is so badly damaged that it is impossible for the screws to be put back in place. In addition to the damaged tray, I was pricked quite deeply by a very sharp needle-like metal protrusion that stuck out from the side of the sliding drawer. The protrusion entered so deeply in my finger that blood poured from my finger. A very unpleasant and worry experience to say the least. Lastly, the rear wire receptacle was damaged and cracked. Again, look to the customer images for more information.It is really a shame this product arrived in such terrible shape. It has potential to really be an excellent and beautiful product. But now that I have to wait several weeks to get replacement parts I am left with a headache and a sore finger!

Arrived damaged. But everybody from Whalen was great about it. Unfortunately, due to Chinese New Year at the time, the replacement part was going to be a while out so I just got a refund. Will purchase again.This thing is *solid*... it ain't light! Weighs the full 90 pounds and doesn't feel cheap!

Although this is a nice looking desk the white top scratches very easily, it came scratch to begin, I attempted to cover the scratches with a white oil sharpie I purchased from homedepot but still shows.If the seller is reading this, I recommend you do not apply the sticker that says made in china on the edge of the desk as it strips the white vinyl/paint when removing. I now have a desk full of scratches in different areas.The desk is pretty from far but close up looks beat up.I wish I would have known more about the cheap white top material before I made the purchase.

I can happily say after three months ownership, this is a great desk. I looks beautiful against my exposed brick wall and serves every purpose I needed.I read the reviews. I fretted over the quality. I feared the worst as I tracked the package. BUT, then I opened the box when it arrived and inspected everything. Not a single piece had any noticeable amount of damage and all were defect free. If we are scrutinizing, there was a tiny blemish on the top of the desk that if you look very closely in very bright light, you can see the dark spot about the size of the head of a pin.I can't say if the overall quality of the product from the manufacturer has improved or not, but mine was definitely in great shape. One specific detail with packaging was that there was a large block of foam seated behind the keyboard tray during shipping. I don't know if this was there in prior shipments or not, but it seems to be the thing that prevented damage to my unit.Finally, as for the durability of the front of the keyboard tray things are looking good. I have been careful mind you, but I have a notorious habit of leaning on my keyboard tray. Even still, I have caught myself putting lots of pressure on it several times and there is no sign of cracking or distress.I would highly recommend the venture to anyone who is on the fence about this desk!Good Luck!Tip!: If you are looking for additional storage, consider the Alex Add-on unit by IKEA -- http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20260718/

Lots of room!It's great for my home office and has plenty of room to put a monitor, a laptop, some decor, and still has room left over to write with a pen and paper.Sturdy, no wobbles. Quality materials (not real wood).Huge package - very heavy. However, it was easy to assemble, and the top part is one piece which adds to the simplicity.I think I will have this desk for a long time!