The item is quite pretty, and I believe it would be sturdy, but, as I am unable to put it together, I can't say one way or the other.  The holes for the locking bolts that attach the top were NOT drilled out. I do not have a drill and am not thrilled at the prospect of paying (drills are not cheap) for something that I will not use again.  Additionally, the idiot delivery person drug the box, completely destroying the box and the packing styrofoam, exposing one corner the bench to be damaged. And it wasn't a corner that would go against a wall, but right on the top front.  One star because, until I can beg someone to drill out the holes, this item is USELESS!