I love this sofa! It does require assembly, but who cares at this price! The color is a little darker than the image online but its the perfect charcoal tone with some blue undertones. It is VERY firm, but still comfortable to lounge on. Only thing I wish was different, the back isnt very high. Im 5'3  and when I sit the back only comes to my shoulders, couldn't imagine a tall person would be very comfortable.