I got this desk because it advertises as just under 48x48" and I have a desk area that needed those dimensions to fit. An hour into building when I could get it into the space, it wasn't gonna fit, so I had to build it the other direction. Actual dimensions are 55” x 47.2 so it sticks out of my space some. But it's very sturdy even through cat jumps. Built it by myself, extra hardware was available,you just might need a second person to help you put the top section up (you build the desktop down first, then the top half and in an L and put it on top) choose the shelf selection u want while you're building it, they have to be on the same level (can't have one up and one down) and they're not adjustable after it's built. I was able to put cords between the lower back wall and shelf to put my cords on the lower shelf so I could still mop and keep my cat away from them. Speaking of, no shaking at all when cats jumped on and off it. It was also SUPER WELL packaged. Lots of Styrofoam in the empty spaces, foam "tissue" between everything so nothing got scratched, AND plastic external corners to keep the box from getting scratched. Instructions also have notes for important differences people may miss with zoom ups. Like "make sure these holes are facing this way before continuing" saved a lot of time!