We just finished putting this together--it definitely takes some time but not as bad as some of the reviews led me to believe.  Helpful to have 2 people.  It is large, so be sure to have a good space for it--very nice that the stairs can go on either side...just make sure that you know what side you want to put them on because to take it apart and switch is a lot!!!  We purchased the gray and it is soft and pretty--we are using it for our daughter's room and she loves it!  The wood is soft as other people reviewed...I am going to reach out to see if we can get some touch up paint because we did 'ding' a few of the boards while putting it together.  We are very satisfied after 1 day and can't wait to see how it holds up as we grow!!