I think the chair(s) are very well made and solidly constructed, which was important to me, since I was replacing very poorly constructed counter stools. I ordered them specifically because my kitchen and dining area is comprised of knotty pine - flaws, imperfections are all a part of how the wood is supposed to look. However, I ordered three, and one of them is so completely different from the others, it looks odd. I wish the one that has the "dark spots" was consistent with the other two,so at least my set of three would look like they belong together. I think they could have done better at the warehouse matching them prior to shipping. They are comfortable, and that was my objective in trading in my old backless stools for the saddle seat. That part of the design is definitely my favorite aspect of the stools, along with the very solid construction. I would still recommend.