Also wanted to add.. the 3 color floor board is very matt to the touch and to look at, while the wider oak color plank is semi-gloss.. Thx

either will work. pick the one that you think looks less fake.

Thanks Beth for the feedback.. We are leaning towards the wide plank (non-variation) one, however my primary concern was around transition from tiled to laminate area.. They dont have much of a constrast.. Is this usually an issue or is it actually an advantage, so as to create a free flowing/ open plan feel to the entire house?

My concern with those two colors you have picked out is exactly what you said, there isn't any contrast between the tile. If you went for a medium stain for the wood it wouldn't blend in as much, nor would it be too dark.

I have to disagree. I recently had new wood flooring installed in a light oak color. I have large format porcelain tile in a light cream color in my office and kitchen (somewhat similar in color to yours) and cream colored stone tiles in the baths that all butt against the wood. I think the tile/wood transitions look pretty great! My wall color is similar to the tile color (also quite similar to your wall color), so everything flows together quite nicely. I have light cherry cabinets in my kitchen (visible from the living areas) and had to take into consideration how the wood looked with them ... the light oak looked best. I also have areas in my home that don't get a lot of natural light and the lighter flooring really brightens everything up. I vote for going light and agree with Beth ... pick the planks that look the most "real."