This bench is exactly what I was looking for.  I purchased the oak and it matches our other furniture nicely. Not only is it a nice place to store our throw blankets, but it is also very sturdy to sit on. Now of for the negatives. Putting it together was not easy. First of all, the instructions are incorrect. Second, the hardware does not line up. Fortunately, my husband has tools and the know-how to get it together. It also arrived with the back piece broken. But we called the manufacturer and they shipped us a replacement piece and now it looks great.

Pros: Great value. Sturdy and looks nice.
Cons: Incorrect assembly instructions. Piece do not line up.