Ten years ago we picked out custom made chairs along with a table from a well respected company. We paid a ridiculous amount of money for each one (ordering 8) - call it the folly of youth. Right away they we causing us problems, but you never want to get rid of chairs you paid that kind of money for. And I sure didn't want to admit that I hated them. No way! Enter children to trash the carefully selected upholstery. Lesson learned - big time! We bought these 2 chairs and 2 benches from the same collection for the same table (thank goodness it's lasted) for the cost of 1.5 of the "custom hand-made" chairs. Not kidding. This is the set as it should have been. We're thrilled. The chairs and benches are study, very well made and both stylish and practical for family life. Highly recommend.