This rug looks and feels much more expensive than the price. The colors are a little more muted in person but it is still colorful. It is pretty thick and very sturdy- I suspect it will hold up very well in our dining room. If you are thinking about getting it, you REALLY should. It is wool, so it isn't very soft underfoot, but it will last a long time.  I don't think it even needs a pad, it's about 1/2 inch thick.