This bench is absolutely stunning! I just love it, for the looks alone! It gives such a nice contrast against my black and white home. I placed it in the front of my house, and the style definitely adds a touch of modern contemporary which was the look I was going for. The rope material that's used is super strong and sturdy. I'm using this mainly for aesthetics, or if visitors come and wait a long time for us to answer the door, they'll have a spot to sit and wait.