Alaterre AWAA0420 48" Bench, Natural

Our home has mid-century decor with modern light fixtures and some teak furniture. We wanted a front hall bench that would blend with this. We were fortunate to receive this bench just a few days after ordering it. I was a bit suspicious about quick delivery because, when I'd previously looked, the delivery time was much longer. When we unpacked the bench, it appeared as if it had been previously assembled. One of the 8 metal fittings in the benchtop was recessed and crooked, and there were recessed areas around each fitting, as if washers had been pressed in. Before continuing, we tested the crooked fitting to be sure a screw would go in straight. It did, so we proceeded to assemble the bench. There were 8 screws, 8 washers, and an allen wrench in the hardware pouch, and assembly was straightforward. Instructions were included, but they made no reference to the washers. The bench legs are sturdy, and the nylon feet adjust, so the bench may be leveled as necessary. The metal legs are hollow. The bench top is laminated, but this does not detract from the overall appearance. Obviously wood is a natural product with lots of imperfections, but this is part of its beauty. The wood is acacia. Our bench was labeled as made in India. We are happy with the bench, and would purchase it again.

My house has a small foyer with a large window. My dogs loved the old bench that was in front of the window whereon people could sit to remove or put on boots. Both dogs would sit on the bench, look out the window and get the window pretty dirty by putting their noses on it. This new bench - unplanned for by me - does not welcome the dogs. They haven't tried to sit on it; therefore the window has stayed clean. Hooray!! What an unexpected plus.

I'm mainly writing this review to note that the product photo shows fewer knots, cracks, holes, etc. than the two benches that I received (see representative photo with remote control added for scale). I like them because they add character, but this is probably not the right product for you if you're looking for something less "raw." Overall, I'm happy with my purchase so far. The product was packaged well—I always worry about shipping damage when I buy furniture online, so it was a relief to see that both my benches arrived very safely. Assembly was very easy with all necessary parts and tools included. The nylon floor protectors are also adjustable if your floors happen to be uneven like mine.

Beautiful!!! Heavy duty! Love this bench. We purchased it to go with our natural wood table and it matched perfectly! Sturdy. Price was a little high considering my table was about the same price, but fair.

I'm very pleased with this bench. It is very easy to assemble and very sturdy. The top is not a solid slab of acacia wood but nevertheless is very thick and well pieced together.