The couch is definitely darker in color than shown in the pictures, but I'm still happy with the purchase. We wanted to find a couch that didn't break the bank (toddler + long haired cat that likes to scratch = disaster) but provided the extra seating. This fit the bill perfectly. Most couches in this price range are frumpy and not very nice looking. The material is soft, but definitely not super durable...our cat has already gotten his claws into it, but that was to be expected. Cat hair vacuums off very easily. Our toddler already spilled something on it and it was remarkably liquid resistant. I was able to wipe it right off and because of the darkness in color, it didn't show at all. It's more on the firm side, but when it's a couch that's really only used as extra seating when company is over, that didn't matter to us. This couch is priced well as it's decent quality and definitely one of the better looking options!