This is a good tree, easy to assemble. It's big and sturdy enough. 
Our 4 month old kitten liked it from day one. It took him some time to learn all the features, spots and ways around this tree; so the learning curve was there.
Our furniture is safe as the cat has his own place to scratch, climb and play.
We also use top shelf as a mini-storage for cat's toys. He knows the toys are there and goes there to pick them up for a play.
Cat also uses the house for a nap/sleep from time to time. 
It's also nice to have a soft plush (and not carpet) finish on the tree.