This is the most beautiful couch I have ever owned. YES it is LIGHTER than shown in the pictures, and as everyone says. It’s not so much SLATE as it is “gun metal grey”. I was kind of prepared for that based on the reviews. I was just hoping it didn’t pull blue as some reviews say. For me it did NOT. It pulls a very gun metal grey. INSANELY soft & LUXURIOUS! It has transformed my entire living room into a statement. Gorgeous beyond words! The grey is such a true grey it goes with everything. It is also very firm, which I LOVE!!!!! & was hoping for!!! Very very firm. The back is just high enough under your arm to rest your arm perfectly on it. We find it very comfortable. Pillows are firm, soft, and very cozy. The only thing is in the last photo, where the plastic was held and tied tightly, it left marks I am unsure will go away. I don’t think I’m bothered by it because the couch is velvet so it doesn’t stick out & the pillow covers it. Still gets 5 stars from me!