This headboard was purchased for my daughter's bed.  We placed a standard mattress on the frame.  She loves it.  Before purchasing, I did read reviews and noted that another customer made mention that you could not see the pattern if you put pillows on the bed.  Well, of course, if you stand up extra pillows in decorative shams and then put other pillows in front of those! More importantly, it is really pretty, easy to assemble, and sturdy.