This fireplace was an instant upgrade to our narrow living room. Assembly was easy (follow the directions), and took me and my husband about an hour and a half. The firebox has a few levels of adjustable lighting and can be used with or without heat; the "flames" are really as good as you could expect fake fire to be. I think it is a little expensive for the quality, but it is by no means flimsy. Overall, a good buy that gave us a more sophisticated spot for our TV and game systems, and has solved the chill in a small room.