I think in this situation it's more the view than the color. The view from the dark house is spectacular..

Hi Kelly, I think you're definitely on the right track. I have used Royal Oak engineered hardwood and it's great. Durable, easy to keep clean etc. Are you planning to run it through the whole house? (Main living areas that connect, and the room with the fireplace?) This will keep the flow through the house, making space appear bigger. Because you are changing out the kitchen to white, there is no need to worry about clashing of timbers which is great, and to keep consistency with your new pallet of the more grey tones, opt for a bench top that has a grey vein through it. This will help produce the pallet for your fireplace too.... keep the consistency through the house, so it's cohesive and intensional. Change the fireplace tiles to compliment the new vibe too. I don't think there will be too much of a clash to the outdoors and if there is, down the track you can always paint the outdoor tiles. But don't let the terra-cotta dictate your internal pallet. Goodluck! p.s If you're Melb based, Fowels Auctions in Clayton, supply the Royal Oak at really good prices and have an extensive range of other floors to look at and compare.

The top one looks like spotted gum, but I'm not certain. If you take your photos to a timber yard, an expert there will know.

Nice floors! I am a big fan of Dulux Natural White which would be similar to your reference pic.