This rug completely made the room. I wanted 2 in various sizes so the light gray was not an option. I was worried the gray was going to be too dark, but it's perfect. The color is a cool gray and cream. I think it's soft so I did not add a pad. I bought the 6' square for my dining room and the 5x7 for the living room. The price was perfect. I could not be happier.