We're currently in the process of picking out a hardwood floor (for new construction) and have a design question. The area that will be covered is approximately 700 sq. ft., and is an open area that encompasses the kitchen, dining and living area (it's very loft like).We're leaning toward a multi-width floor (3" - 4" - 5"). Does anyone have a sense of what the visual impact would be (e.g., formal, modern, country)? Also we could go with something other than a 3-4-5 repeating pattern ... for example, 5-3-4-3.

If it's of any help, we're looking at (solid hardwood) products from Chelsea and Homerwood.

From Homerwood:
-- Hickory Smoked Red Saddle -- smooth surface with an oil finish (i.e., not a urethane, and with no shine to speak of)
http://www.homerwood.com/products/collections.asp?CID=4&PID=38

From Chelsea:
-- Hickory Clear Grade, Dark Brown w/ Red Undertone Stain, Satin Finish
http://www.plankflooring.com/50-north-bay-hickory/detail/56-north-bay-hickory

-- Hickory Character Grade, Dark Brown w/ Red Undertone Stain,Textured Matte Finish
http://www.plankflooring.com/49-black-river-hickory/detail/183-black-river-hickory

Any thoughts or suggestions?

Thanks,

:Paul

p.s., This is being done through a builder, so our choice of manufacturers is limited; and, from that limited list, Chelsea and Homerwood seemed the best.