I picked this bed because of the higher headboard, I wanted one I could lean on.  I had this with a 10" mattress for about a week and decided it was a little too low so I added a low profile box frame and it is perfect.  I would recommend a 14" mattress if you don't want a box spring.  Also, over sized comforters look best here too otherwise you can kind of see the gap from the mattress to the frame, it doesn't bother me though because it just looks so regal.  This was an amazing find for the price. it's sturdy, took me an a friend about 40 minutes to put together, LOVE the high headboard.  Would absolutely buy it again.