The bed came in perfect condition, shipped in four large boxes. Assembly was as expected- we used a flat head screwdriver and an adjustable wrench in addition to the wrench tool that they include. The blue color is exactly what we expected- it's velvety and soft. We placed our box spring on the frame provided, as well as the mattress and we feel we still get the look of a high headboard even with the additional height of the mattress. It's obviously not "organic" furniture, so there is a new smell that takes time to dissipate. But there is a note included which states it has not been made with fireproof material- which we really appreciate because that really limits the amount of chemical we are being exposed to. I would recommend it to anyone interested in this style!