This is an attractive bed that is easy to put together. The headboard is not overly tall…two euro’s & two shams will yield 3-4” of the gray fabric. This bed requires a box spring for stability as there are only a few slats on the base. Some people say it’s cream, others-it’s gray…I say it’s a light taupe-like gray. This bed is perfect for a room that is not overly big, it’s not an overpowering size. I love it & think it’s very elegant for one of my guest rooms.