I cannot express how happy we are with this bed. We have now had it about 6 months. First of all, the quality is amazing! Its solid wood all the way through, very heavy and sturdy. The side panels give it a more finished look. It is so beautiful and we are always being asked where our bed is from. The foot board is not upholstered on the back side which is good so it wont get dirty. This same bed is sold in local furniture boutiques where we live for much more. We know its the same because the boutiques call it the same as what was on the box when it arrived. They also use the same stock photos. We are very impressed!