Flooring
Seriously look at low-pile carpets and the "nearly-rug" concept at the end. I saw this concept at one of the Disney resorts--gives you the area-rug feel but nothing to trip over. I'm still torn. There is something about traditional looks, but just consider the options!
A lot of good info on tile and types/ratings to consider.
This product (linen patterned porcelain tile) was in a very nice home with mostly wood floors. Seems like a fun transition and I'd even be open to it in bathroom spaces if the scale was right.
Q