This chair is quite sturdy and looks very nice. The only assembly was to attach the legs, which was easy. Just stack up a few washers and screw the leg in by hand, then tighten with the supplied wrench. 
I got the grey fabric. It is not a solid but has a very fine mix of different grays running through it. It gives the fabric a nice, subtle textured look that adds interest to the piece. It's a medium grey, slightly on the darker side. 
Chair is firm but not too firm. The back is just the right height for me to rest my elbows on while reading so my arms don't get tired and it hits right in the curve of my spine to support my back. The seat is a good height for my feet to be flat on the floor while sitting completely back in the chair. 
I was a little disappointed that the cushion wasn't detached but, overall, I very pleased with this chair.