Im hoping someone on this blog can help, my contractor refuses to refinish the 100 year old hardwoods on the main level of the house we are buying stating they are too rough and its too labor intensive. (they are very chopped up) so im looking at hardwoods to replace, and they all look so well, NEW. none look right? any tips? whats the best hardwood floor to keep the traditional look? and not look so glaringly new? the house otherwise is in good shape, we are even keeping the light fixutres, doors, trim everything is just getting repainted. appreciate any help!! thanks

The older floors had tighter grain from old growth trees that were harvested the first time. Now forests are managed better so the growth rings are farther apart.
To get the old growth look I would suggest buying rift and quarter sawn red oak.
Then stain it a light brown, one part walnut color mixed with four parts neutral
oil, to hi- light the grain and anchor your architecture. The light brown color will have the old varnish look.
Natural color floors are too light for an old house, in my opinion.