The rug is certainly lighter than the website (it's the difference between looking at something in bright light as opposed to looking at it at dusk). It suits our room really well, though, picking out the blues and the grey/browns. There is more sandy yellow in the rug than appears on the website but, again, it blends in to the other colours well.  It is practical for a living room (as well as attractive) and comfortable underfoot. We are really pleased with it.