I love these, and am very happy with them in my kitchen.  They are plenty sturdy for my house full of teenagers.  The assembly was total PAIN in the BUTT - took nearly 1/2 hour for the first stool.  Second stool was easier as I knew what I was doing, and had my husband helping me so he got to do all the allen wrench twisting.  I hate those things.  Anyway, they look gorgeous in my kitchen, and assembly with a partner is recommended if possible.