Was fairly easy to assemble all by myself. Only requires a drill for two screws. Totally agree, this looks way better in person. The picture online made me a little worried it would be very firm with a fake leather appearance. My only criticism is the box they ship it in should be sturdier. It had almost completely fallen apart by the time it was delivered. Thankfully, nothing was too badly damaged, and the cushions weren’t punctured or anything.