There is absolutely nothing wrong with going dark, but I find that the darker the floors the more sin you see. Every spec of dust, lint, dirt and dander will be seen! So you are right to steer away from Ebony. Jacobean is a favorite and I have used Special Walnut numerous times, but I have also been known to mix too! Its more tricky though because you have to decide on the tested color while its wet, because when its dry the color changes. This is because it doesn't have a sealer on it to bring it back to its true hue. People have a hard time determining in the moment while numeours mixes get put down what works best for them which is why he is trying to disuade you.

On another note my biggest piece of advise if to go satin, not matte on the finish! Matte shows a lot of flaws too, and tends to look dirty after awhile even when its not.

You can also look at Ciranova stains and finishes. REACTIVE STAIN

Antique brown is a classic.

I love dark floors but if that was the plan why spend the extra $$$$$$ on white oak Red oak takes a dark stin well and I like white oak left natural. As for the exact stain color that will need to be tested in your space with your stuff. If you have lots of wood stuff then that has to be considered too.As for the dark showing the dust be thankful , better than your guests walking around with dirty socks or in my case dog hair slippers.

Thank you, Nicole! We are planning to use a satin finish. Am leanign toward antique brown but also going to ask if they'd be willing to uesw Old Masters, oiled leather color.

Ask them about water popping, if they haven't covered that already.