Hi, I have a 85 step side w/ the oak floor. And I used wood deck water seal stain. As for keeping the natural color. Look at the natural color or a light honey gold. Get a couple small scrap peices of oak to try it out on. Then you can shellac it for a really shiny look.Just IMO. I stained mine w/ toner honey gold 2-3 coats and then 3 coats of shellac. Haven't installed yet.If you want I can try to get pics of them for you. Thay just won't be installed.