Hardwood and marble are two completely different looks, interesting that no one suggested a more middle option like wood look tile.

For me, marble would feel too sterile for Florida. But there are so many other factors and design elements that are likely in play that it's hard to give advice. I will say though that if you don't like the marble now chances are you won't like it once it's all in. Listen to your gut and then decide.

I would continue with the marble. Although it is a more formal look, it is uniquely refined and a refreshingly cool choice for Florida that is not subject to some of the same type of concerns as wood. On a large scale with no furnishings or rugs to add visual warmth, it can feel cold but once it's done and those things have been added, I think you may grow to like the quality, classic, and clean look and may be glad you did not throw away $6,000 having it removed.

$6000 that's a big consideration for me hard to throw that away

Thank you. I did look at a dozen wood look tiles, but my problem is that the stairs and upstairs have real wood making it very tricky to look nice at the point where the stairs meet the downstairs floor. You can really tell the difference when you put real wood right next to porcelain wood tiles.

I know it is hard when you have these feelings at this point in a project! Remember that you chose the marble for a reason.

this is the marble flooring thus far

Once your furniture is in and you have found area rugs, you will love the marble.

Maybe add some rustic stained trim, possibly a knotty alder. Not sure if that fits the Florida style, but would reduce the formal look and add some warmth.

I have friends in Miami Beach with cararra marble floors and I love them and with rugs and firniture they are not cold or uninviting.

I agree with the comments above that say you'll be happy when it's done. This floor is really just the background of the palette of colors and textures you will have in your home. Imagine some jute rugs, weathered wood tables, textured pillows, warmly painted walls... It will look great! My clients very often need my encouragement to hang on to the vision at this stage in the process, and I encourage you to do the same!

Why don't you google some images of white floor rustic decor, and see all your options. I think white floors, especially something as beautiful as that, will open up a lot of possibilities for creating a look you'll be happy with. Additionally, you can go in SO many directions with those floors. Lay the floors, and spend that $6,000 on rugs and furniture.

Hello! If you stay with the marble there are so many ways to warm it up! I am not sure of the style that you are going for, but I think a great natural fiber rug, sisal or a look alike with some rustic wood tops for the tables, and comfy, light colored upholstery would be a great way to get that nice, warm feel. Good luck! We are cheering you on!

Stick with the marble!

Is that the entrance its been installed in so far? If you have wood on your stairs and upstairs and are finding the marble too sterile/cold downstairs maybe just keep ,marble only in entrance and then transition into a wood and marble combo like this for the rest of your downstairs which will tie the two together.

As a buyer, marble floors would scare me off--or make me take $6000 (at least) off my offer as I contemplated the cost of tear-out and replace. But I don't live in Florida; and I don't like "cold", "formal" or "hard as marble" floors on my feet and knees :) What matters is what you think. What is it worth to you? And, if you are planning on selling within 10 years, what do buyers in your area prefer?

jute rugs are fantastic and will help you bring the beach Vibe inside. Put a layer of thick padding underneath of them and you will be totally stoked. the marble will look really elegant underneath all of your different types of rugs and furnishings. you can also install a jute style rug to go up your stairs to incorporate flow between the two types of flooring. jute, seagrass, sisal, even Turkish wool and silk, there are so many amazing hand-woven materials. don't fret, it'll be great. if you need some reassurance do an E consult with Maria Killam she's fantastic and will set your mind at ease.

It will look beautiful when done and is only as formal as YOU make it. Agree with others that the rugs can set the mood. Keep them natural and coastal for less formality. Remember,too,that the floors are just one element of the big picture. It is common to get cold feet about a choice at this stage,keep to your vision and it will,most likely,all work out.

I would go with hardwoods if that’s what you love. Why live with a floor you don’t really like? I lived in Florida and we had hardwoods in the entire house and NEVER had a problem. Most of my friends had hardwoods as well. Seriously, there is no problem having wood floors in Florida.

I love that marble. It is very warm looking to me and with furnishings, rugs and other elements, you will love it. AND bonus! It is COOL! You will love that believe me. Many people have anxiety when they are looking under a microscope at a selection they have made but you have to step back and think about the "whole picture". Nice selection. Don't waste $6K. Hang in there!

Please no jute rugs on that beautiful floor they feel worse on bare feet than anything.

I see a few comments encouraging you to stick to your vision. Well and good; so is your "Vision" hardwood or marble? :)

Is where you live very humid?

Maybe people don't have wood floors for a reason.

$6000 is a lot of money to throw away.

Why don't you keep the marble floors and just get a lovely area rug to "warm up" the rooms.

Just be sure you get really good rugs.

Think of the extra $6000 you have now, and get hand knotted quality Persian carpets.

And don't forget the pads for underneath the carpets!

On the other hand, if you simply must throw away $6,000 I can send you my address...

For the love of heaven, there was no tile other than wood look or marble?? If you love hardwood, and are willing to assume the wet risk associated with the climate, now is simpler than later. If it is simply THAT tile? Same thing. Depending house style, I love slate. ........a lot less formal than marble.

You've left out info. What is the feel in your home, what are the kitchen cabinets, where and how much...........

Thank you all for your comments! The feel of the home is warm, a bit rustic. I have maple kitchen cabinets and old chicago brick backsplash. Most of furnishing is medium to medium dark wood. But we do have a pool and many times have the sliding glass doors wide open and people in and out. We live in south florida. Yes, very humid. I am leaning towards keeping it because well, it is $6000 simply because I didn't follow my gut. Hopi g once furniture and rugs are installed it works!. Also, for those that asked. We do not plan on selling anytime soon.

your floor is beautiful

That is a great floor and will last 30 plus years. Timeless. Very durable too. But make sure you have the proper sealing. Read manufacturers warranty requirements. Might not need anything. Just be sure.

"many times have the sliding glass doors wide open and people in and out."

Will not have any effect on a quality engineered floor. Preferably one that is fastened or glued direct. I got hit with Irma dead on center last summer; Naples area. Power off 14 days. Pool was my air conditioning and shower.

70% Stick with the marble.

"There is nothing formal about marble in Europe. Look at some Italian websites."

Isn't THAT the truth. Marble is freaking EVERYWHERE there. And it looks beautiful.