I agree that a light floor would open it up! What did you choose?

Yes thanks everyone...I went with stainless and fence is now installed and looks fantastic...I'm happy to say the above comments about other elements reflecting off the stainless is absolutely true..I can add a pic tomorrow in the daytime if you like to see.

Sorry to hear that you are covering over those oregon rafters and putting in downlights. The rafters have so much character and ceilings like yours aren't built today due to the expense of sourcing such large, long bits of timber. The downlights are only going to contribute to the blandness of the room. Save your harsh and unforgiving downlights for task areas, not your living areas. With a ceiling of that height I would be considering some nicer pendants, some wall washers and uplighting to celebrate the space and character that you have, rather than making it look like a bland, hospital waiting room. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

Go with the colour you like.... i much prefer the look of light coloured floors so would always go this option regardless of fashion. The negative of dark is that you see every hair and speck of dust, especially when the light is on them.