Being 6’10” I purchased the California King it was on sale when I got it. It’s beautifully made I put it together on my own, directions were extremely easy it took me 45 minutes to assemble everything. Yes a box spring is definitely required I have a 7 12 inch box spring with a 14 inch mattress the headboard is the eye catcher it’s extremely tall which is what I love. Definitely recommend it.