After reading many other reviews on this piece, I wondered how long it would take my husband to assemble this.  Well, for those of you with decent carpentry skills, rest assured that it only takes about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.  The directions are easy as is the assembly.  I am very happy with my purchase as this piece definitely looks 'richer' than the amount I paid for it.  It also functions well.  I just wish I could somehow lock the drawers, but that's my issue to deal with.  I would recommend it!