Natural Colours Oval Rugs

Bring effortless warmth and organic texture into your home with this handwoven seagrass area rug. Crafted from 100% natural seagrass fibers, its richly woven surface creates a timeless foundation that complements coastal, farmhouse, Scandinavian, and modern interiors alike. The neutral tones blend seamlessly with a variety of décor styles, while the durable construction makes it a practical choice for everyday living spaces, dining rooms, entryways, and home offices. Finished with a felt backing, this rug delivers natural character and enduring style for your home.

Arrived in perfect condition and rolled out straight away. It takes a few hours to settle but it has now and looks great. Great quality, great service. Room not ready yet but rug perfect.. Tracey. Dumfries, GB. Tue Jun 23 2026

The epitome of sophisticated beach house style, the Natura Collection exudes artisan-crafted character. Soft, lustrous yarns are blended to create mosaic textures, including over-sized loops, flat weaves fanciful fringes. Natura rugs are hand woven in patterns perfectly suited to casual, beach house decor and classy-casual living spaces, especially the family room or den.

Fast delivery. Definitely looks better than the price tag. Bit of fluff released on opening but nothing a light hoover couldn’t sort. Slight vinegar smell for a few days. Colour was as described. Would definitely recommend.. Carol. Melrose. Sun Aug 30 2026

Polypropylene sets a durable, welcoming foundation for your space with this Moroccan–inspired area rug. Featuring a globally influenced pattern with clean lines and soft contrast, this design adds visual interest while keeping your room feeling balanced and approachable. The versatile palette layers easily with modern, boho, or transitional décor, making it a natural fit for living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. Power-loomed for a smooth, consistent finish, it offers comfort underfoot and everyday practicality for busy households. Plus, the timeless pattern brings character and warmth without overpowering your space.

This rug very thick ‏and very nice I like it. Anonymous. Mon Jul 06 2026

Craft-art style and a myriad of marvelous colors come to home decor in Cape Cod area rugs. The boho-chic charm and soft natural fiber yarns of these remarkable rugs add engaging hues and extraordinary textures to any classy-casual space. Cape Cod area rugs are made using sustainable jute yarns, twice-washed for unrivaled softness.

Love my new rugs, I order 3 for different areas in my kitchen diner, they look fantastic adding the colour that was needed, quality is fantastic!!. Sharon. Southend-on-sea, GB. Thu Aug 20 2026

Elevate your living space with the understated elegance of our Modern Ivory/Grey Area Rug. This meticulously crafted rug is a testament to sophisticated design and quality construction. Machine woven in Turkey, this rug embodies precision and durability, ensuring it stands up to the demands of everyday life without compromising on style. The subtle interplay of ivory and grey hues is brought to life through a series of layered rectangles, giving the rug a contemporary feel that gently complements a wide range of interior decors. The polyester fibers not only contribute to the soft, plush feel underfoot but also provide a lustrous sheen that catches the light, enhancing the rug's visual depth and allure. Sustainability meets luxury with OEKO-TEX certification, guaranteeing that this area rug is free from harmful substances, making it a safe addition to your home. Whether anchoring your living room furniture or offering a soft landing in your bedroom, this area rug is both a statement of style and a testament to ethical home fashion. Add this Modern Ivory/Grey Area Rug to your collection for a touch of minimalistic elegance that promises comfort, quality, and timeless appeal.

Lovely little rug for in front of my sofa. It is soft on bare feet and fluffs up with the vacuum.. Linda. North East. Fri Aug 28 2026

Add a layer of cushioned softness underfoot with Ivy Bronx’s Alarice Medium Pile Pile Collection. The perfect complement to clean-lined contemporary furniture, these decor-smart Medium Pile Pile rugs create a stylish and comfortable living space. Beautifully crafted of high-density polypropylene fibers, these rugs are virtually non-shedding for easy care.

This rug is gorgeous, so thick and heavy it does move across the floor when you walk on it. It is so soft under bare foot, it’s perfect.. Anonymous. Witham, GB. Sat Apr 11 2026

Classic rug artistry is brilliantly revived in the fashionable hues and trendy styling of the Perez Rug Collection. Grand medallions and ornate borders become mod decor in the vivid blend of colours and distressed patina of these sublime transitional area rugs. Perez is made using soft synthetic yarns in a medium cut pile for long-lasting beauty and comfort underfoot.

I love this rug, it is a little darker than expected. However the rug brings all the colours in my sitting room and makes the room much cosier and put together. The size is perfect and the rug is so soft. So pleased with the quality and the fast delivery.. Anonymous. Fri Aug 07 2026

The rug creates a cozy atmosphere in any room, be it the living room, bedroom, hallway or children's room. The extremely pleasant and soft surface as well as the non-slip underside for a secure grip make it a high-quality choice. Stylish integration With a variety of color options, the rug can be effortlessly integrated into your existing furniture and accessories or placed as an eye-catching color accent in the room. Luxury and elegance Experience the ultimate luxury of this exclusive rug and transform your home into an oasis of relaxation and elegance. This rug has been designed to enhance your living space in a unique way. Timeless comfort and style The soft touch under your feet blends harmoniously with timeless style and cozy warmth. Our exquisite rug combines luxury and elegance to transform your rooms into comfort and aesthetic beauty that you will enjoy with every step. Features - Modern soft short pile - 100% polyester - easy-care and robust - Back with anti-slip coating - Washable up to 30°C

Look amazing and so soft under feet.. Caroline. Mon Aug 24 2026

The braided rug Collection features artfully crafted, reversible area rugs. These charming floor coverings are handwoven with textured patterns and smart color schemes. Braided rugs are ideally styled for any classy-casual decor in the den, coastal or country living rooms, bedrooms, or as a hallway runner.

Exactly what we wanted- soft, looks peach but upon closer inspection- pink, cream, taupe and green. Daughter loves it!. Vanessa. New Orleans, LA. Mon Jun 02 2025

The braided rug Collection features artfully crafted, reversible area rugs. These charming floor coverings are handwoven with textured patterns and smart color schemes. Braided rugs are ideally styled for any classy-casual decor in the den, coastal or country living rooms, bedrooms, or as a hallway runner.

Beautiful…. The perfect fit and color for my room.. Thank you.. Kathi. Lancaster, CA. Mon Dec 18 2023

The braided rug Collection features artfully crafted, reversible area rugs. These charming floor coverings are handwoven with textured patterns and smart color schemes. Braided rugs are ideally styled for any classy-casual decor in the den, coastal or country living rooms, bedrooms, or as a hallway runner.

Lovely rug. Ashley. Boldon Colliery, GB. Sat May 30 2026

The braided rug Collection features artfully crafted, reversible area rugs. These charming floor coverings are handwoven with textured patterns and smart color schemes. Braided rugs are ideally styled for any classy-casual decor in the den, coastal or country living rooms, bedrooms, or as a hallway runner.

Gorgeous rug. The colours are slightly more neon vibrant than It looked on website which is why I have given it 4. I would prefer it more muted but looks lovely and perfect for yoga. Natalie. Cockermouth, GB. Thu Jun 18 2026

Set a dynamic foundation in your living room or dining space with this versatile, modern area rug. Just right for pairing with contemporary aesthetics, it features a neutral design hue that adds a brightening effect to your room. This rug has a medium 1.5cm pile height that balances underfoot cushioning with a low-profile feel, so it's ideal for busy hallways and common spaces. Although it comes with a polypropylene backing, you should add a rug pad underneath to keep it in place.

Very nice soft carpet it’s so nice I would definitely recommend. Anonymous. Sun May 10 2026

A flower bed with a lot of history. The traditional Aubusson design, which has its origins in the French art of carpet weaving, has lost nothing of its relevance. Elegant flowers in pastel colors beautify and bring elegance to any living space. The flat pile carpet is hand-tufted from high-quality acrylic yarn. Its beautiful surface structure provides it with hard-wearing properties that withstand even high stress. Make more out of your living space! Indulge your senses with soothing colors and harmonious designs.

it made my living room alive and welcoming and homey… love it. Lani. Wed Dec 04 2024

The Metro Rug Collection features the newest classy-casual area rugs by Safavieh. Metro rugs are hand-tufted using pure wool with a cushion-soft cotton backing. You'll find a smart selection of decor-friendly designs perfect for any living room, family room or bedroom.

Lovely rug. I like that it’s wool. The variations in color and pattern are beautiful. No weird odor and much less lint than other rugs I’ve ordered. It was wrapped nice and tight and laid flat immediately. Thinking of getting a smaller one to replace another area in our home. Exactly what I’ve been looking for.. Carol. Chippewa Falls, WI. Thu Jun 19 2025

Evoking a feeling of natural stone, this rug brings the outdoors in. This rug creates a contemporary design inspired by nature. Silky texture and a modern, neutral palette bring casual comfort to any room in your home that needs an extra stylish touch.

It’s nice but not as vibrant looking as on the website, still a good rug, I just wish it had less beige colour in it as those areas are a bit dull looking, but it can work great depending on your room design. Chiara. Belfast, GB. Thu Jun 04 2026

Classics never go out of fashion: This rug was handmade and fits any style with its traditional pattern.

it made my living room alive and welcoming and homey… love it. Lani. Wed Dec 04 2024

The Metro Rug Collection features the newest classy-casual area rugs by Safavieh. Metro rugs are hand-tufted using pure wool with a cushion-soft cotton backing. You'll find a smart selection of decor-friendly designs perfect for any living room, family room or bedroom.

Absolute Favorite!!! I’m still in love with this after having it a year. It has just enough color variations.. Sarah. Fillmore, CA. Sat Apr 05 2025

The MACHINE WASHABLE collection features machine-washable models at 30° for easy and effective cleaning. Accidents happen, and sometimes a sponge just isn't enough. With our Machine Washable Shaggy Rugs, worries are over! These rugs are designed to withstand water, so you can safely throw them in your washing machine. Select the wool or delicate cycle, add a dose of bleach-free detergent, and spin at a maximum of 600 rpm. Open-air dry. Machine-woven by our experts and labeled Oeko-Tex standard 100, our rugs are durable, moisture and mold resistant, and designed for high-traffic indoor areas. Resistant to all life's accidents caused by the clumsy, children, or pets. Easy care: Vacuum regularly. Blot small stains with a mild detergent. Machine wash at 30°.

I found a beautiful Boho rug at a fantastic price! The rug is incredibly soft and well-made, and its color and pattern are exactly what I wanted to brighten up my living room or bedroom it just needs a little time to flatten out. I will update pictures once I decide where its going.. Judy. Venice Florida. Tue Oct 22 2024

This Moroccan rug showcases the intriguing style derived from nomadic artistry. With a display of tribal motifs and smart fringed ends, this boho-chic rug totally indulges today's cultured tastes and unbound decor preferences. This rug is made of family-friendly synthetic yarns for comfort underfoot and lasting beauty.

Wow, I’m so impressed by the quality of this rug. I ordered the 11x15 to fill the space and it’s exactly what I was looking for. The plushness feels so good to walk on as well. Highly recommend. Brittany. Brooklyn, NY. Thu Feb 01 2024

The rug is named after its meaning in Hindi. Mixture or Blend is the perfect description of these beautiful rugs. Hand-loomed in India, the rug will bring you a mix of natural raw jute braided with brightly coloured recycled fabrics; it will bring you a mix of sustainable and recycled materials.

Good quality mat and guite small.. Yvonne. London, GB. Mon Jun 08 2026

The epitome of sophisticated beach house style, the Natura Collection exudes artisan-crafted character. Soft, lustrous yarns are blended to create mosaic textures, including over-sized loops, flat weaves fanciful fringes. Natura rugs are hand woven in patterns perfectly suited to casual, beach house decor and classy-casual living spaces, especially the family room or den.

Lovely rugs!. Anonymous. Reigate, GB. Wed Nov 26 2025

This rug is a little more Shabby Elegance than others that we offer but they are of great value. If you are a hippy or a hippy chick you will probably love them. Cover a huge space for very little money or fill that little gap in the porch. Conceal a tired-looking floor under bright colours or spread them out in your tent. These rugs are great for bringing a splash of colour to your home or camping adventure. They are hand-loomed in India with multi-coloured fabric so everyone is different - and the fact that they are made with recycled materials is a great touch! Remember that the random fabric content means that they should be treated as non-colour fast especially if they have become damp - so please take care to avoid colour transfer onto other surfaces.

The rug is more multi-colored than "red/orange" as described, but it's big, cheap, washable, sustainable, and it keeps our feet warm, so we're keeping it.. Nina. Cork, IE. Wed Oct 12 2022

This rug easily turns every room into a cosy cocoon of inviting warmth and soft luxury. Soft shrink polyester yarn is combined with even softer microset polypropylene yarn into well-thought, trend forward designs, creating interesting high-low 3D-effects in every rug. Thanks to the durable construction, the rugs are non-shedding, suitable for floor heating, and very easy to maintain.

Fantastic rug! Great size, quality and delivery. Guy. London, GB. Mon Aug 17 2026

The Outdoor Collection meets the need to brighten up and equip your outdoor space in order to fully enjoy it. On a terrace, a balcony, or a loggia, under the pergola or the gazebo in the courtyard, or on the veranda, on the patio or under the hammock, our Outdoor rugs are indispensable for a cozy and well-groomed exterior corner. Perfect match for a wooden terrace or an aluminum veranda. Don't hesitate to play with the layering effect for a chic and ultra-cosy bohemian décor. Machine woven by our experts, our aesthetic rug is durable, moisture, bleach, and stain resistant, with a virtually non-shedding pile. Designed for high-traffic indoor areas. Family & Pet Friendly. Stress-free Cleaning: vacuum regularly. Blot up small floor rug stains with warm water and a few drops of soap. Surya offers elegant and sophisticated rugs for chic and cozy interiors and exteriors.

I needed something to go under my sofa and this is perfect.. Melody. Raleigh, NC. Tue Mar 04 2025

Bring an innovative touch to your outdoor living areas with this Weather-Resistant Outdoor Rug. Suitable for decked walkways and patios, this modern outdoor rug is designed to withstand diverse weather conditions, from blazing sun to damp environments. Woven from abrasion-resistant polypropylene, this piece of outdoor decor not only boasts a refined aesthetic thanks to its modern shape but also promises enduring performance. Perfect for outside environments where UV exposure poses a challenge, this rug retains its vividness and stability, ensuring a consistent display. Because it's exclusively for outdoor use, it transforms open-air spaces into refined settings, supporting social gatherings, relaxation moments, or casual conversations. The rug also enhances spatial dynamics due to its understated elegance paired with robust practicality. Simplified care instructions include refraining from washing, bleaching, tumble drying, or ironing, ensuring focus on enjoyment rather than upkeep. Note that no assembly is required, making it a versatile solution for nearly any exterior decor scheme and the needs of various users seeking relaxation or aesthetic improvement in outdoor living spaces.

Bring an innovative touch to your outdoor living areas with this Weather-Resistant Outdoor Rug. Suitable for decked walkways and patios, this modern outdoor rug is designed to withstand diverse weather conditions, from blazing sun to damp environments. Woven from abrasion-resistant polypropylene, this piece of outdoor decor not only boasts a refined aesthetic thanks to its modern shape but also promises enduring performance. Perfect for outside environments where UV exposure poses a challenge, this rug retains its vividness and stability, ensuring a consistent display. Because it's exclusively for outdoor use, it transforms open-air spaces into refined settings, supporting social gatherings, relaxation moments, or casual conversations. The rug also enhances spatial dynamics due to its understated elegance paired with robust practicality. Simplified care instructions include refraining from washing, bleaching, tumble drying, or ironing, ensuring focus on enjoyment rather than upkeep. Note that no assembly is required, making it a versatile solution for nearly any exterior decor scheme and the needs of various users seeking relaxation or aesthetic improvement in outdoor living spaces.

Very poor quality, polyester. Very lightweight. Returning.. Monika. Bristol. Tue Apr 07 2026

The Modern Rug, synonymous with contemporary style and minimalist elegance, is the epitome of functional beauty for your home decor needs. Expertly crafted from premium jute, it underlines significance by covering large portions of your living room floor, serving as the connective element in an otherwise open space. By simplifying decor choices, it elevates ambiance through its unbeatable combination of form and function. Indoor-exclusive, its warm textile properties make it ideal for social engagements or solitary relaxation. The easy care instructions highlight its practicality, while handwoven quality speaks to a timeless craftsmanship. Transform any ordinary living space into an extraordinary focal point with this modern addition; it is both a functional necessity and a testament to streamlined aesthetics, offering comfort, beauty, and resilience in one package. Whether accommodating intimate gatherings or simply enhancing the daily living experience, the rug is versatile and essential for any modern home. Its existence answers the "what"—an area rug built for impactful elegance; "who"—homeowners desiring contemporary appeal; "where"—exclusively indoors, occupying significant floor areas; "how"—via seamless integration with existing decor into the modern lifestyle; and "why"—to combine style with practicality, standing as a symbol of contemporary finesse. A rug that is more than just decor; it's an enhancement to one's home living.

The epitome of sophisticated beach house style, the Natura Collection exudes artisan-crafted character. Soft, lustrous yarns are blended to create mosaic textures, including over-sized loops, flat weaves fanciful fringes. Natura rugs are hand woven in patterns perfectly suited to casual, beach house decor and classy-casual living spaces, especially the family room or den.

The braided rug Collection features artfully crafted, reversible area rugs. These charming floor coverings are handwoven with textured patterns and smart color schemes. Braided rugs are ideally styled for any classy-casual decor in the den, coastal or country living rooms, bedrooms, or as a hallway runner.

Perfect for underneath my sons desk. Tara. Charlotte, NC. Mon Aug 07 2023

This rug easily turns every room into a cosy cocoon of inviting warmth and soft luxury. Soft shrink polyester yarn is combined with even softer microset polypropylene yarn into well-thought, trend forward designs, creating interesting high-low 3D-effects in every rug. Thanks to the durable construction, the rugs are non-shedding, suitable for floor heating, and very easy to maintain.

So beautiful. It looks like animal print but its not. It has made my dining area looking good. Deepa. London, GB. Thu Jul 23 2026

Exclusively from the Hanse Home carpet collection Jute Braided! The hand-woven Skandi jute carpet “Rangpur” brings a natural look to your home. With its timeless design in mottled solid colors and modern Scandi-boho look, the carpet is a great eye-catcher in any living area. It can be combined in many ways with different interior styles and creates a feel-good atmosphere. Thanks to its high-quality workmanship made from 100% jute, the rug is particularly durable and easy to care for. The rug can also be laid in rooms with underfloor heating without any problems. The large selection of special colors and shapes offers the right rug for every interior and every room. Treat yourself to a piece of nature with charm with the Rangpur jute rug.

The Gabiro rug is a real classic. This particularly hard -wearing rug gets its unique quality and fascinating variety through a special cross -weaving technique with 14 yarns. The warm colours fit easily into any home. Whether it's a living room or another room in the house, this oriental rug simply goes with all pieces of furniture.

The pictures don't do it justice. Beautiful, colourful rug that really makes other colours in the room pop.. Emma. Manchester, GB. Thu Jun 16 2022

For those looking for a perfect colour addition to their favourite cosy zone, this rug is the solution.

Gorgeous rug, much more vivid colour than it appears on the website, the material is also incredibly soft and thick.. Anonymous. Mon Sep 22 2025

The versatile Polyester Carpet redefines indoor aesthetics, transforming spaces like hallways and living rooms into functional artworks. Made from durable 100% polyester, it sustains everyday usage while offering minimal maintenance. Swift vacuuming or damp wiping keeps it pristine. Its foldable feature enhances mobility and storage efficiency. Non-slip characteristics guarantee safety across all ages and environments. Embrace a modern touch with this aesthetically elegant, multi-room carpet, anchoring your décor while facilitating comfort and security.

The Modern Rug, synonymous with contemporary style and minimalist elegance, is the epitome of functional beauty for your home decor needs. Expertly crafted from premium jute, it underlines significance by covering large portions of your living room floor, serving as the connective element in an otherwise open space. By simplifying decor choices, it elevates ambiance through its unbeatable combination of form and function. Indoor-exclusive, its warm textile properties make it ideal for social engagements or solitary relaxation. The easy care instructions highlight its practicality, while handwoven quality speaks to a timeless craftsmanship. Transform any ordinary living space into an extraordinary focal point with this modern addition; it is both a functional necessity and a testament to streamlined aesthetics, offering comfort, beauty, and resilience in one package. Whether accommodating intimate gatherings or simply enhancing the daily living experience, the rug is versatile and essential for any modern home. Its existence answers the "what"—an area rug built for impactful elegance; "who"—homeowners desiring contemporary appeal; "where"—exclusively indoors, occupying significant floor areas; "how"—via seamless integration with existing decor into the modern lifestyle; and "why"—to combine style with practicality, standing as a symbol of contemporary finesse. A rug that is more than just decor; it's an enhancement to one's home living.

For those looking for a perfect colour addition to their favourite cozy zone, this rug is the solution.

Gorgeous rug, much more vivid colour than it appears on the website, the material is also incredibly soft and thick.. Anonymous. Mon Sep 22 2025

The epitome of sophisticated beach house style, the Natura Collection exudes artisan-crafted character. Soft, lustrous yarns are blended to create mosaic textures, including over-sized loops, flat weaves fanciful fringes. Natura rugs are hand woven in patterns perfectly suited to casual, beach house decor and classy-casual living spaces, especially the family room or den.

This Holbeach Red/Blue Rug brings an instant vintage charm, with its repeat medallion style and abrash colors that bring to mind beautiful antique rugs from a Moroccan market, the soft, silky pile and bright colors will bring instant global energy to any room in the home.

Beautiful rug, lovely and soft with cheery muted colours. Excellent communication and update throughout order progress, despatched quickly and very well wrapped. Very pleased ☺️. Anonymous. Sun Jul 05 2020

Kiens Rugs are the top notch extra luxurious variety of rugs. Our Retro and modern collection of carpets with brighter and elegant color combination are enough to provide charming Trendy look to every part of your place as very reliable and long lasting. Beautiful Designs will bring brightness and warmth to your home. A Colorful and the super soft pile of the spectrum range feels as good as it look. These rugs are power loomed with a stain resistant and 100% heat set polypropylene Pile. These rugs are such a fire way to add color, warmth and texture to any room. Easy to hoover and maintain.

Where the captivating oval shape meets the luxurious placement of wool and viscose. Featuring bold, hand-carved elements with vibrant fabric colours, adding maximum appeal to any room through its unique variation of materials.

The carnival range is a bright, cheerful rug, produced with brightly coloured recycled fabrics and a white cotton base. The style of weave is an attractive braided design, and the result is a gorgeous thick rug that will bring a splash of colour. Please note that since every rug is hand woven with a mix of random materials, they may vary from the photographs shown.

More nature is hardly possible! Cate jute rugs by Carpetfine are robust and soft floor accessories. They give a cozy flair and impress with their timeless braided look. Jute rugs with their natural colors radiate absolute peace and create a feel -good atmosphere. Mostly the colors are beige or brown. The Nala jute rugs by Carpetfine are 100% handmade pieces of art.

Carpet isn’t the greatest of quality. Took. While to fully sit flat on ground. Strong smell. Had to return. Reha. Casnewydd, GB. Wed Nov 12 2025

Embrace the modern minimalistic approach with this handcrafted jute rug, a distinctive addition to any home interior. Meeting the needs of an eco-conscious consumer, this area rug's design embodies both style and sustainability. Whether placed in a grandeur living room or an intimate den, its generous dimensions cover vast floor areas, crafting a sophisticated yet subtle backdrop. The uniquely simple and functional design adheres to modern decor ,with its neutral tones complementing various color palettes and furniture styles. Perfectly designed for exclusive indoor use, this rug enhances acoustic comfort and provides a cozy surface underfoot. Maintaining it is effortless, as it is machine washable, ensuring longevity and pristine condition over time. Suitable for those who admire beautiful, uncomplicated designs, this rug combines practicality with an intriguing aesthetic, making it an ideal choice for a conscientious homeowner seeking peace and simplicity.

Dense soft twist pile rug. Made in comtemporary colours and designs with a slight sheen to the surface

Enhance your decor with this exquisite hand-tufted area rug, skillfully crafted from a blend of viscose and wool with a sturdy cotton backing. Its unique oval, irregular shape is enhanced with intricate decorative embossing, adding depth and dimension to any space. Experience luxury and sophistication with this statement piece, designed to elevate your home with style and elegance.

Ecorugs by Louis De Poortere Transform Your Space with Eco-Friendly, Machine Washable Elegance Discover the perfect blend of style, sustainability, and practicality with Ecorugs by Louis De Poortere. These exquisite, machine washable rugs are designed to elevate your home decor while making a positive impact on the environment. Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, each Ecorug is a testament to the rich heritage and innovative spirit of Louis De Poortere, a Belgian brand renowned for its high-quality textiles since 1929

State-of-the-art transitional effect as the shiny outer border fades towards the centre