This rug was purchased to go under the dining room table with both table leaves in place (10 X 7). In this application, no pad was needed. The colors are muted and the appearance changes depending on the viewing position and lighting - dark one way, light another way. The beige sometimes has a hint of greenish tint, again depending on the lighting. We like all of these characteristics that tie the living room and the colors employed in the remainder of the first floor rooms. I gave it 4 stars only because of the cleaning requirements; but, for the price, it's definitely worth it.