Unfortunately it is true. I requested to have the option returned to have the old layout back, which was denied. The new layout is really hard on the eyes...I agree. Doesn't matter what colors you choose.
I think all depends if we can find the same information as in the old one which is not the case today.. So the only hope is that the single interface will speed up the time of upgrades and eventually GMs will add all removed information. Today I could not say that I have new interface as occasionally pages are shown in old version, so this is kind of mix you cannot get use to.
I'm not a fan of the layout either but I am adjusting. I tried to make the colours as close as possible to the original layout. Green for links. Lots of blacks and grays in background. It's not as hard on the eyes.