We love this bed. It was not hard to assemble. It probably took 90 minutes-2 hours total, but not difficult. Once assembled, it was very solid and look absolutely exquisite.  The "talc" color is sort of an oatmeal/cream color. It's definitely not bright white and the fabric is not a solid color. It has "flecks" in it. This worked great for our style, which is anything but coordinated and perfection.