Hi Luanne, one thing to consider when deciding between engineered hardwood and solid hardwood (which I believe is your question) is your climate, and ultimately, how much control you have over the humidity levels in your house. Here in the upper Midwest we sell much more engineered hardwood than solid hardwood because it is more dimensionally stable. In a climate in which heaters will be on a lot, which tends to dry out the air, solid hardwood is much more likely to develop gaps between the planks, and more likely to split or crack. I don't recommend solid hardwood here to anyone unless they have a whole house humidifier.

Other differences to consider: Solid hardwood generally doesn't come in planks wider than 5", so if you want wide planks, which look better in larger areas, engineered hardwood is your only option. Your room looks like it has a good bit of open space, so I think wider planks is the way to go, i.e. probably don't go with 2 1/4" or 3 1/4" wide planks. Go with 4" or wider planks.

It looks like you have quite a bit of light in the space so you can get away with darker wood. In fact, it looks like you have so much natural light that I would choose a medium to dark tone to provide some depth. I would stay away from lighter wood.

Lastly, solid hardwood, surprisingly, is generally less expensive than engineered hardwood. That is something to consider depending upon your budget.

In terms of a few companies to consider that make great hardwood and stand behind their products are Lauzon, Preverco, and Kahrs.

Hope this helps!

Thanks Brian!! its settled then! im going with engineered i selected a dark espresso wide plank bamboo. th thanks!!