I am using the bed with a box spring and mattress that add up to nearly 16 inches thick. The bed is very high with the box spring and I think I would like it just as much with just the mattress. It was easy to put together and is very sturdy. The color is a very sand beige color and is quite neutral. The legs are plastic but they are very substantial and you really can’t tell that they aren’t wood. I’m really happy with the bed.