The color is exactly like the picture.  I love how light and bright it is.  I didn't realize how high up it sat, but that was a plus.  I love being able to set up in bed and rest my head back against the headboard.  It is the perfect height.  Bed is very sturdy and was fairly easy for me to put together myself.  Slats are screwed in individually, providing a very secure base.  Really well made bed.