The assembly is not complicated but very challenging since the holes do not line up. The photos are misleading. The armrests are the same height as the backside. Also, the pieces required to configure it like some of the alternate photos do not exist, making that impossible. If you plan to use the ottomans as additional seating, know that they are lower than the couches. The cushions and pillows are very flat. The whole set looks cheaply made.