I saw a photo in a magazine with a ottoman just like this one . The setting was in a living room and 3 or 4 persons were setting on the floor and eating their meal , placed on wood trays, on top of the ottoman. This had become extra seating space for a large crowed. What a great idea.. So I had to have the ottoman and it serves many uses. We love it in our home and is a very well made peace of furniture.