The couch is massive and the material will sustain use and a little abuse. The gray is a dark shade and the pillows provide great back support. However, the couch is very firm. I wish it was much softer, but I can’t complaint because at this price point, it’s not bad at all. The couch that had the type of softness I want runs for double the price and I wasn’t willing to spend that kind of money. This couch works just fine and perhaps it will soften after some wear.