No... No.. No! Kick your contractor out the door for praying on your gullibility! (And give me his phone number so I can inform him of his ignorance with respect to what is best for your home!). I would so love to have brick floors in my home! What year is the building? Please post pictures of the room in question. As for "trends": if everyone followed the party line there where would all the classic architecture in the world be? Most likely panelled over with cement board and illuminated with pot lights! Your gut is telling you this is bad advice, right?

Without seeing an image of the area you are referring to I say leave those floors alone. Unless your floors are in terrible shape and not safe I would keep them as is!! Like Rusty, I would love to see a picture of your floors as well.

Regarding the rest of the renovation. Does this include new Cabinetry? If so are you following the same foot print or do you know if the flooring runs under the current cabinets? The contractor is probably trying to head a potential issue off at the pass before he runs into any surprises.

there was just a story about finishes like this...embrace yours, for sure.

https://www.houzz.com/magazine/embrace-a-few-beautifully-weathered-surfaces-for-a-happy-durable-home-stsetivw-vs~56717753

Please post pictures if at all possible! What could be more au provence in a French Country home than brick floors?

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Wow -- this is so great! (My 1st time to pose a HOUZZ question). Thanks very much for your feedback.

Here are a couple of photos as requested. As you can see, the space is currently very dark. Our thought is to put in all new (white? I really love white) cabinets and countertops -- plus rearrange appliances, extend and add a little seating at island, create a sitting area near bowed window, etc.) . . . In sum, to brighten up the entire space and make it a more inviting place for hanging out (and keeping the cook company!)

The floor definitely needs deep cleaning, but I'm willing to do it myself on my knees if this can work. I really welcome other suggestions any of you may have, as well. Thanks again!

Keep those floors!! Just go light walls and cabinets. I would use Carrera marble for your tops and backslash if possible. Great space, have fun!

They are beautiful Olive! Can the broken/chipped ones be repaired? Some of them look like they wouldn't be a bare footed person's friend. :)

I like your brick floor!

Beautiful, timeless and perfectly appropriate for a Country French home! Don't even think about destroying them!

I once had a contractor tell me to get rid of my antique solid brass entrance door set and knocker (circa 1924). So I could replace it with what? A cheap plated metal one from Home Depot? I think not!

The one style I still see valances used is French Country - which is one reason it is the style in my own house.

Keep them!!!

Thanks, everyone. These are great ideas. I'm more determined than ever to hold on to my bricks!

Hi - i am buying an old home with old dark brick kitchen floors i don‘t like the look - but also I'm 65 with some back and knee issues. We are thinking of taking out the brick and replacing. As you have lived with brick kitchen floors, do you agree?