This is a very classy item. It is true that there are many parts to it. It took me 3 hours to put it all together, and that's including opening the packaging very carefully, dusting off the pieces and vacuuming before and after building it. I didn't follow the written instructions, only the diagrams, but I did make sure I had everything, and I labeled all the hardware once I identified each. This part was crucial. All in all, the item is beautiful and there was only one small nick on the bottom, which is quickly fixed with the stain pencil that was conveniently provided. 

Pros: This is an ideal size for my small apartment living room, and it looks great.
Cons: Too many pieces to put together.