Easy to assemble, but be sure to follow the order of assembly.  No tools -- all snap together.  Impressive engineering design.  Sturdy enough to store six seat cushions of 3-inch foam.  Keeps them dry in the rain.  It's all hard plastic, no metal, so I choose not to sit on it.  A child's weight is probably ok.  Decor-wise, we got the dark brown; it's attractive enough and fairly inconspicuous on the patio.