Site finished hardwoods are the gold standard. Using a lower grade in multiple widths will allow some savings...but not as much as you think. The concern I have would be the substrate. Is it concrete slab or is it wood joist? Hardwood over concrete is a bit trickier as it takes a LOT of technical knowledge to get it to work as a glue down install. If this is over concrete then the engineered hardwood (that's what it is called) is a better option because most of these can be floated. Traditionally the engineered hardwoods have beveled edges (the valleys between the planks) to ensure a nicer look when installed (they are not sanded like site finished which means the edges can have issues 'lining up' which makes the bevel a benefit to the installer). I prefer a lighter hardwood but your inspiration photo has a medium reddish brown finish/stain used. It creates a very rich look. I would not go any darker than the inspiration photos. And remember: a lower grade wood with multiple widths (such as your inspiration photo) will look a snick more rustic/organic than a higher grade floor with uniform width. A bit more about your substrate will help us figure out what is *better for your situation...and PLEASE tell me you are using a professional wood flooring installer and not the GC's 'guy' who does framing, drywall AND floors.

What's your counter top? As much as I love the look of blue slate up against a wood floor, it would look weird if it is the ONLY punch of blue/gray in the entire kitchen. If in doubt, look to your counter tops to help pick your floor. It is a very simple (yet elegant) form of DIY Design which helps homeowners complete the look without having all the stress of picking 'another colour' for the floors.

Do a sand on site hardwood ( White OAK /select ) board width you select, and stain/finish on site to your liking. If you want a pre finished, selection, you need to go shopping, look at the wear layers on any you select. Bring the samples home. this is a LOCAL, endeavor. Personally? I'd paint the built in. Feel like and awful lot of wood : ) Pre finished IS hardwood, so is engineered flooring with a different substrate. ........sand on site hardwood is forever......and will outlive you. Depends of course, WHAT is beneath your carpet. If a slab/crawl space foundation? You need engineered product, and a moisture barrier.

clean the cabinets....the space looks as though nothing has been done over the years. When its time you'll have to do quite a bit ...probably a complete renovation. Save money and live with the floor and just use the space. I'd be concerned the appliances may cease to work any time so I'd be tuned in to a possibility they will need replacing and that is awkward . But this isnt the situation where i'd do small things one at a time. ...the result wont be satisfactory. Hopefully the older kitchen was factored into the price you paid for the dwelling.... look at it this way...you will end up with a great kitchen with everything to your taste/needs .