Really beautiful bed. The instructions are purely visual - no written words. We followed the layout but turned the pieces up so you are screwing the screws downward instead of sideways. Made the job much easier. My husband could not screw in the screws (tight spaces) so he put it all together I handled the screws. We have a very thick 17-20 inch mattress with a slim box spring. It has been difficult to find a headboard that is not too short. This one works great. We ordered the white and it is more like a putty color. Some people say off white in the reviews. It is not creamy but more gray-as whites go.

Pros: Worth every penny. Head board is tall. Sturdy-we had to bring it piece by piece upstairs. statement piece. Looks like a Horchow bed.
Cons: 2 hours to install. watch the diagram carefully to avoid taking it apart.