The shoe rack was easier than expected to assemble, and was done by one person. The gray color is slightly darker than pictured online, but will work in my space. I like the sturdiness of the unit as well as the cleaner presentation for hiding a bunch of shoes.. I currently have a mix of running shoes, high heels, flats, and have 20 pairs of size 7 or 7 1/2 shoe stored in the unit. I would definitely recommend this piece of furniture for shoe storage