[percept]

I much prefer plain text, but this really depends on your target audience.

Based on personal experience I believe those who don't live and breathe this stuff 24/7 prefer a little window dressing.

If it is styled, I recommend minimizing the amount of scrolling required to reach your text. (For example, I don't see much value in a large header mit logo.)

But test, and ask the same question of your prospective readers, if possible.