I went with solid walnut but it seems high quality engineered has a great reputation lately. We live in a fairly dry climate, but we have a humidifier attached to the furnace and walnut is very dimensionally stable, so we've had no problems with cupping/expanding.

I've heard wide plank is more likely to cup too. I liked 6", but went with 5" for our solid walnut floors because of concerns of cupping.

Engineered hardwood will be more stable due to the many layers set with the grain running in alternating directions. When expanding and contracting, as wood will do with changes in temperature and moisture, the layers will work against each other and leave you with a more stable floor. If you want to be able to refinish the floor someday be sure it has a nice thick top layer. Good luck. :)

Hi, i'm curious what you ultimately decided? I'm looking at the Baltic wood flooring, and cant find many pictures of it on the internet. Did you use the Baltic wood? and if so which product name and are you happy?

Many Modern and Contemporary homes use Rift & Quartered White Oak. Its about 50% more stable than regular Flat Sawn Oak. That may be something to consider.

Rift & Quartered White Oak Hardwood Floor in Atlanta Modern Home · More Info

Rift & Quartered White Oak Hardwood Floor in Atlanta Modern Home · More Info