I bought this bench to replace 3 old, failing chairs  match the original bench from the other side. It looks almost exactly the same as the existing one or at least what it looked like when we first bought it. It feels a little stiff, but I think that’s only because we’re used to the old broken in one. It looks great  has really streamlined the look of our dining room now that those old chairs are gone. If it’s anything like our original bench, it has been sturdy  held up extremely well. It’s a great seat for anyone, but the kids especially enjoy it.