Ok first thing is first, this is definitely a 2 man project. I am a pretty handy mechanically inclined female but towards the end of building the loft bed, I really could have benefitted from having someone help me add some man strength lifting it up. Luckily nothing broke or cracked so if you are not strong enough I recommend adding the Handy man part to your order. Besides building, my son loves his new bed. It's sturdier then I had thought which is awesome. It's not high so it's a perfect height for my 6 yr old. The shelving is by far our favorite feature; as you can see with the picture my son already has everything displayed from books to toys and pictures! The desk is simple and perfect for him to start getting into his studies. Soon as he got home from school he went straight to his desk and did his homework! The color has a blue hue to it so it's not a harsh grey it's a very cool grey which I love because it brings a coolness to the bedroom! Very happy with the purchase!