The table is from Restoration Hardware and I agree it's a shame RH doesn't have a companion bench. The West Elm bench could "work," but you'd need to soften its parson table roots with a bit with upholstery and ultimately, it will just always look out of place. I would consider, instead, a bench that mirrors the table's silhouette (there is a generous overhang not so obvious in this photo). Something more like this: http://tevaliving.com/product.php?id_product=43. Be sure the dimensions are right for your table and that it'll fit "just so." Or consider having a bench made locally - a good craftsman can make a custom piece and reclaimed wood is very popular. You'll have a bit more control in matching the finish than searching for a retail piece. Good luck!

I love it..and it is 80" perfect!!!! thanks so much for the advice.

I love the bench you suggested. Do you think it is okay to buy an 80" bench
for a table that is 72" but I will keep extended to 87" ??? What do you think or is there such a precise size of bench for tables?

It might be a decent match in color, but the table was pretty distressed. The bench doesn't appear to be that. I'd give it a "B", which is probably as good as you'll find out there since RH doen't make a matching bench.

mlls: Typically, a dining bench is exactly the same size or slightly shorter than the table. If you keep the table at 87", the 80" Teva Living bench won't look out of place, but it would look odd to keep the table at 72". Because the RH table's footprint is stable (the leaves attach on either side and its legs stay where they are), the Teva bench probably won't tuck under this particular table. Not a huge issue, but something to consider. If you want an 87" bench, consider trying Etsy. I've seen a few artisans out there who might be able to help - and most do custom orders. Here's one that caught my eye - this listing is of an oak bench, but it looks like he works with all woods. http://www.etsy.com/listing/90214353/reclaimed-wood-bench?ref=sr_gallery_29&sref=&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=dining+bench&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_page=3&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade

I am getting in touch with Todd Manning to make me the bench...so I should order an 87" bench? Also do you think it would look bad to have two benches and two head chairs? my husband is insisting on two benches as we have 4 kids...also do you know where I can get nice head chairs to go with this table? and Linen is out of questions with kids...thanks so much

Sound like a great plan! Look around Houzz to get a look at how dining benches work - 2 benches with 2 chairs is perfectly acceptable. You can also do a row of chairs with one bench, which, in my opinion, keeps things from looking too picnic-like. In case you haven't run across it, here's another photo of the RH table, paired with a bench: For chairs, I get the sense you want something a little less casual than what is pictured here. Not sure what your decor is like elsewhere, but have you considered leather? http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod690024&categoryId=cat500016

Have no idea but I wouldn't worry about it. A little contrast is always interesting. More so than a matchy-matchy look. If you like it, buy it. (Most woods have a funny way of working together well, anyway, regardless of color and grain.)