Definitely more gray than "Linen" colored. Assembly was rather easy. All the pieces are given to you, just make sure that the holes on the legs align with the holes in the headboard so the screws go in correctly! Also, I would check to see which side of the legs has the indentation for the washer to sit in so the screws are flush with the back panel when you have finished assembly. I learned the hard way and had to undo one side! Otherwise, the headboard is VERY soft and comfortable! I love it!