A modular furniture seat assembly comprises a seating portion having a front end, a rear end, a pair of opposing side edges, and a seating connector component on each of the opposing side edges. A back portion is provided and has a lower end, an upper end, and a pair of opposing side edges. The lower end of the back portion connects to the rear end of the seating portion. A pair of lateral support arm assemblies is provided, each having an inner surface and an outer surface, with each of the pair of lateral support arm assemblies having a first arm connector component which is releasably connectable to the seating connector component. The lateral support arm assemblies comprise an armrest portion and a leg portion, with the leg portion supporting the modular furniture seating item when it is an assembled condition.