Love the size and look of this bench. The dark slate gray color is very close to black which is what I wanted.  I agree with some other reviews that the back doesn't seem too sturdy. It flexes when leaning back as there is no center support. Putting it together was easy, my 10 year old son and I did it together. I am putting this outside in my flower bed area so it will get full weather. Although it does say it is for outside use it also says to cover or bring inside when not in use. That didn't make me very confident that it would withstand the elements so I gave it 3 coats of a weather sealant. I plan to seal it every year and hope that will prolong the life of this bench.