1. Banana Plugs, preferably locking, with insulation around the grip to lessen the chances of shorting.
2. I run most everything in-wall or through furniture, but if I have to see the cable, I'd prefer it to be a neutral white so it blends in with the baseboards.
3. Soft, flexible jackets are best. Not too much friction, though -- need to be able to pull it around corners and through voids.