Updated Layout Appearance

Check out the new appearance of the layout I am now applying to the site.  I liked the simplicity of the other look but it was just too boring and seemed like an amateur design so I tried to spice it up while still keeping it simplistic like my client wanted.  Once the interactive elements and galleries are added to this layout design, I believe it will be a sharp website for Mike.  Like it better than the previous look?  Any suggestions?  Remember this is just a rough illustration of what the finished layout will look like without the real content.