We are also struggling. I think the finish they put on determines the finish but have no idea what it would be like. Samples are not treated yet. Would like timber in light colour with grey hues. Thinking American Oak or Beech. Any ideas would be appreciated.

What style of home? Is it a new home or reno/update/extension to existing? Is it a family residence? What areas of the home are you finishing in timber? IF there is existing cabinetry and interior finishes what are they?

thanks for your reply Paul. It is a new two story home with lovely open stairscase. will be living upstairs so stairs probably get a far amount of use.

So is this just for the stair or for the actual flooring? Blackbutt will be more consistent and lighter. Spotted gum has more variation in colour. It's all natural product so it's next to impossible to see exactly/perfectly what it will look like, and the particular finish can make a difference too. But these two are quite different. Blackbutt is a lighter option closer to a Tasmanian Oak or Vic Ash in tone but much harder/denser, with a bit more character in it and much better for stairs than the softer hardwoods. This is Blackbutt:

Spotted gum is much different has quite a distinctive/australian look to it as per below:

Significant difference. Depending upon what adjacent flooring and also the stair design one or the other could work. It's about choosing the right one for your particular context. If you want an interesting/varied feature spotted gum could be the go, if it needs to be more understated and toned down then blackbutt could be the better option - good luck :) PD

Thanks Paul that helps a lot., definately prefer the Blackbutt and lighter colour. The timber floor will be for all top floor plus stairs. Just one more question. If this is finished in gloss will it make the timber look yellow at all, am trying not to have that look?

No, the gloss level is irrelevant- Yellowing usually happens over time if say an old school turps/oil based product is used. There are many finishing options available ranging from natural oils to water based - best to test the product on a sample to see how it will come up. Cabots cabothane clear is a good water based option that will give a very natural result with minimal colour change from the raw product - good luck :) PD

Maybe your best option is to deal with a timber yard regarding your purchase of the flooring. Most reputable yards will allow you to hand select from their stock of flooring what you want to purchase. That way you can individually choose each board yourself guaranteeing you will get the colour choice you desire. Sure it’s extra effort but the result will be what you desire.