Antoinette Kerstner those are Plain Sawn Oak floors. The stain looks site applied and custom, similar to Jacobean color.

It looks like Jacobean... which I am always drawn to... do you both think that would work with my cabinets... my ceiling are to roof line and it open floor plan with living, dining and kitchen... grey walls... I want to keep room as light and bright as possible...

Hello Antoinette, I brightened your photo for you.

I rather like your floors in their natural coloured state. Maybe add a slight grey wash to offset some of the yellow (that will intensify after the varnish is applied). Your cabinets "appear" to have an orange hue. I think the Jacobean color may be too red for your purpose. If you want the space to be as light and bright as possible, then I would definitely leave them as they are now. Let your light floors and walls be the backdrop for your darker cabinetry. Best, Leona

Leona, such a good point!! I appreciate your opinion and will seriously consider. Last question... do you thing this approach will stand the test of time design wise?? I don't want to be out dated in say 5-10 years

Yes, cabinets are cherry and color is "new Carmel"...

Hi Antoinette, design trends are constantly changing. If they didn't, the interior design and home renovation trades would collapse, and we'd still be living surrounded by our avocado fridges and pink toilets ;-)

For sure, neutral dark and light wood floors will better stand the test of time over those with a definite color hue (such as reds and oranges). There is no way to predict what color will be fashionable in 10-15 years from now. I think the important thing is to chose something that "you" like, and that will work with your entire decor and your lifestyle. I came across this article on wood stain colour trends for 2016. I think you will find everything you need in it to make a choice that you will make you happy for years to come. http://theflooringgirl.com/blog/hardwood-flooring-stain-color-trends.html

Best,

Leona

So true!!! Thank you again! You were very helpful

Pleasure. Would love to see pictures of your final decision. Please keep us posted!

It won't be until summer... but I will definitely send pics!!! Thanks and all the best!

Your floors will be unvarnished until summer ?