Bed was a little difficult to put together. I ALMOST threw away the directions for the headboard because I didn't see them in the box, but luckily I noticed the directions I had were missing a ton of steps for assemble a bed. Make sure you find TWO sets of directions. 

And yes you do need a box spring for this bed or you'll see space between the bottom and the start of the headboard. I also didn't like that the wingbacks don't reach the floor, but luckily my bedside tables are able to hide that. Other than that it's a great bed, and good quality.