forum theme

Themes are a brand, am I right? A theme is easily identified as a part of your brand. Brands often include colors and logos. But many forums from time to time will change their themes. I feel this could impact the overall brand of the forum and do more damage than good. What do you all think...

Do flashy, modern forum designs drive away users who prefer the classic forum look? Which side are you on?

What's the best-looking forum you have ever seen? Best-looking in terms of the theme, look, and feel of the forum?

How often do you change your forum theme? Do you think changing themes on your forum can help make the community more active or does it bother most members to have to get used to something new?

Do you use a custom forum theme at all? If yes, did you make it or did you have someone else make it? We use a premium theme here, but it is in no way custom other than the few color changes I've made to it.