Was very easy to put together unlike the usual nightmare of "assemble it yourself" furniture. Yes, it's particle board, but seems to be higher grade (if there is such a thing). Pieces all fit together well, except for the backing board where you have to be very careful to drive the nails in at an angle. If you're using this unit against a wall, I'd leave the backing board off--it's not worth the trouble. I got the black and cherry version and am pleased with how it looks.