I love this bed frame and headboard!! It required assembly and took me about 2 hours to put together alone. Would of taken less time if I had help. The slats work great for our gel memory foam bed without a box spring. It is a great buy for the price, sturdy, doesn't squeak. I think the beading looks great. I've had this bed frame and headboard for about 2 months now and it is still as sturdy as the day I put it together.