You should have a professional installer in your area take a look at your home so you can discuss what end result you are wanting. You may need to use an engineered wood. This is still an all wood product and is much more dimensionally stable than solid wood. This is a huge advantage if you are in an older home or in the midwest where humidity levels can drastically change from season to season. A solid wood will cup or curl if humidity and moisture levels are not managed. Your installer should do a moisture test before installation to make sure the installation does not fail. All warranties will be voided if this step is not taken. Also, your transitions will need to be considered. Is the new wood floor going to butt up to tile, carpet, or vinyl? The height difference in the two products will need to be taken into consideration. You will have a greater selection of thicknesses in the engineered woods. Engineered wood should be several plys, all wood. If you choose a solid wood, the hand scraped versions are fantastic for a high traffic area with children. Hickory, Red Oak, most Brazilian Species, and even Bamboo are hard enough to take everyday traffic and still look terrific. Good luck!

Thanks jacksplash, was going dark but I have floorboards painted the same colour as the stairs is currently, on the landing too and these would then have to be dark also. Worried in case that would make the whole space too dark. Today I was considering a colour darker than the marble on the wall but somewhere on that tone, which could work better upstairs. Questions, questions??? It's the last place to be painted since the renovations but painters leaving next week so I need to get a move on

Hi Zoe , I had to take a second look to make sure this wasn't my photo! I have the same fireplace frame and our mirrors are similar! You have great taste ;) I can't offer any advise I'm afraid, but I'll be watching closely to see if something can be done. I wondered if it was possible to sand it down and paint it white or cream maybe, but the silver pieces may pose a problem. I'm tired of mine too. Here's hoping for some inspiration....

Hi.. have a look at the Colortrend colours for kitchen. You can use a darker version of wall colour for kitchen units also. Definitely paint them skirtings! hope this helps.. Tony