It works for me because I’m using it on my front porch as decor, with a lantern, etc on it, so no one will be sitting on it. I like the way it looks, but it is truly “rustic”. The wood is very rough (splintery, even) and the top (seat) flexes when you push on it even slightly, because it is not well supported by the cross piece underneath, which is why I’m glad no one will be sitting on it. I’m probably going to supplement the brace so the seat doesn’t warp when I put something heavier like a plant on it.  For the price, it’s a keeper for me , but others may not feel the same.