A little perspective.....
Right now I have 3 benches similar to this one.....all freebies:
I rebuilt the wood part on the one above, but recently had the two back plates fall off and the other two are also in dilapidated condition. Although all 3 are still usable and rebuildable, I'm wondering if replacing them with the style I posted would suit my purposes better.
Also, at one time I had made a few of these like this one and have them located in a few spots.....
My benches aren't meant to be the most comfortable bench in the world. Just something to sit down on when the mood strikes - and also they do add a bit of accent to the garden.
When I still had my cats - of course they loved them!
All 3 benches will be out where the irrigation hits them so something out of wood that I can coat with a weatherproof coating is why I'm considering this design - as well as something easy to throw together.
Bottom line is, like many other things, it probably just boils down to personal preference and practicality for one's circumstance.
Thanks for the input so far!