Ok, the reviews helped a lot when preparing to build this bed. Power tools are a must, and if you have a power tool with an Allen wrench socket,  you will save yourself lots of time, energy, blisters, and tears. My husband and I had to get creative when holes were pre-drilled too deep and the screws wouldn't catch (use plyers). It took us around 2.5 hours, and after reading the reviews, I was preparing for around 5, so a major plus there. The bed is a tad wobbly, but still seems sturdy. I love the look and it's fun to decorate! My daughter has a mermaid themed room, so I created a mermaid grotto with the loft bed.