This bed is just as beautiful in person as it is pictured. Assembly was easy, materials are good quality and Im very happy with my purchase! I am using the included slats because my box springs made the bed seem too high, but they feel very sturdy and theres no movement or noise. Theres actually also a strip of heavy duty velcro that runs along the side rails to keep the slats in place that work really well. I was hesitant to purchase this bed due to things mentioned in other reviews, but I cant say anything negative about the quality or assembly.