Could this unit be assembled WITHOUT the back panel? In other words, does the back panel offer structural support, or is it just there for aesthetics?
353816
Back panel is to keep things on sheleves from dropping out. Structural support is minimal.
353817
The back panel does not offer structural support and it can be assembled without. Looks great either way.
1168203
Yes. The back is fimished. This is a nice unit. I was pleasantly surprised.
1024577
Yes, it can be built without the bottom shelf, but it provides a great amount of stability. It may be very wobbly without it.
1185436
Uncertain. There is a back panel. My handyman put it up. He didn't say there was anything was missing. It feels secure.
1506371
I believe you are asking if this unit stands without any other support? Correct? If so, yes, it is quite stable.
1122174
we did place it against a wall but it did not need to be. The back is a plain white fiber board with about 20 small screws. For me that would be ok, it certainly is not ugly
378888
If assembled correctly (instructions are not the easiest!), there will be two metal reinforcing bars that run from the back support to the front of the top shelf area, and there will be two small L-supports at each end of the top shelf area. The glass panel rests on top of those things. Once you have it put together properly, it works just fine.
75030
It won't be sturdy unless you attach the back panel. It really needs it or it is very unstable
408629
None! It's great for a guest space, with no assembly required. Other than wheels\casters.
1420036
This came pretty much assembled. We just had to put the glass shelves in (with the space we desired in between each shelf). We loved how low maintenance was. You may need someone to help you get it out of the box (because it is tall and a little awkward).
1627310
The sides and back are actually thin panels (approx. 1/4" thick) that slide down through grooves in the frame (before attaching the top.) The top and frame feel and appear to be solid wood. Once assembled, the sides and back are not flimsy because of wooden slats (two on each side) approx. 3/4" X 1.5" that serve a dual purpose (the shelves rest on them and they also add support to the side panels.) The back is supported by a strip of wood that runs across the width of the cabinet as well as the shelves once they are installed. Overall, the cabinet is very sturdy and attractive and appears much better made than most cabinets that require assembly. The sides and back are actually thin panels (approx. 1/4" thick) that slide down through grooves in the frame (before attaching the top.) The top and frame feel and appear to be solid wood. Once assembled, the sides and back are not flimsy because of wooden slats (two on each side) approx. 3/4" X 1.5" that serve a dual purpose (the shelves rest on them and they also add support to the side panels.) The back is supported by a strip of wood that runs across the width of the cabinet as well as the shelves once they are installed. Overall, the cabinet is very sturdy and... » Read More The sides and back are actually thin panels (approx. 1/4" thick) that slide down through grooves in the frame (before attaching the top.) The top and frame feel and appear to be solid wood. Once assembled, the sides and back are not flimsy because of wooden slats (two on each side) approx. 3/4" X 1.5" that serve a dual purpose (the shelves rest on them and they also add support to the side panels.) The back is supported by a strip of wood that runs across the width of the cabinet as well as the shelves once they are installed. Overall, the cabinet is very sturdy and attractive and appears much better made than most cabinets that require assembly. « Show Less
306451
yes, assembly is required. You'll need a lot of open space, time and extra parts not included to properly put this thing together.
2172462
Hi..The back is pretty sturdy. It's not as heavy as the frame and shelves but seems fine. I'd say some kind of press board? I am very pleased with it. I have it filled with books and it is very solid. Sauder makes good , lower priced furniture. The assembly has always been good for me. Holes line up. I have had a desk for 30 years and 4 moves.
2094409
The desk is connected to the rest of the bed and provides some of the rigidity. You could assemble without it but I think you would need to provide some replacement for the support it provides. I haven't tried it just my opinion after assembling two of them.
2270022
No, I wouldn't assemble without the shelf, for all the reasons that you noted. Hope thus was helpful! P.S. Great piece of furniture!
1199240
Yes. It is a great unit! I had to install upright because I put three side-by-side; however; I think you could install it the other way and stack another on top if needed. It was easy to put together too; I did it by myself.
2218340
No, but assembly consists of attaching the back to the base. I am assembly-retarded (I build software, not hardware!) and I was able to do it. The only bit that confused me was the cable guide for the posturefit assembly; it goes on the underside of the base on the back, but on the side of the frame facing towards the front (you'll see the cable assembly guide has a groove in it that matches an extrusion on the base). Once I figured that out it was fairly easy.