We had this item shipped twice because the top board was damaged in transit.  There was a LOT of difference between the two items.  The first shipment was nicely distressed but the second item looked like it was burned...not a pleasant aesthetic at all.  We ended up just using the damaged item because the overall appearance was nicer.  You can also tell this is NOT solid wood, but veneer.  All that said, we kept the item because it does look ok from a distance and it serves the purpose we need.  It's a nice oversize bench with shoe storage that keeps my mudroom organized (well....it helps.)