We are just finishing our home... We have hardwood floors thoughout.. The best way according to all the professionals is to lay the hardwood perpendicular to the floor joists. I thought I would like the wood running away from me when I came in the door. It goes across instead.. I have one hall way that runs in one direction, another runs the other way.. so one has the wood going across, and the other the long way.. It's fine.. Hardwood looks wonderful and I'm very happy I chose to put it in the standard direction. Don't worry.. you're going to love it!