I think first make sure all the lighting is LED 4000K that will brighten the space better than a runner. I think if you want a runner get a simple no pattern one for sure

Paint the floors or install peel-and-stick tiles over the surface.

Runners will only add to the chaos.

BTW the wall color is not helping the appearance of the space. Are you planning to paint the walls?

My husband doesn’t want to do anything like that to the floors unfortunately. I deeply regret our choice of wall color. We are planning on changing it one day, just not any time soon. What color wall paint would you recommend? Thank you!!

Thank you!

If you have painted recently I can understand why you wouldn't want to do so again right away. The next time you paint any room do more sampling so you're not surprised by how the color looks when the whole room is done. When I think I have a color I like I paint a sample that is at least ten feet square to be sure. I have changed my mind at that point. Small samples or chips just don't do the job. If you end up painting before you replace the tile I would go with a lighter color.

Those floors are not great, so save up to replace them. It looks like you have wood elsewhere, so that would be the best replacement. A good flooring contractor can match the wood as long as it's finished on site. You won't be able to buy factory finished. As long as you buy rugs you can return you can always try some until you find something you like. I am honestly at a loss with those floors as to what will work. Hopefully someone else will have some good ideas.

That’s exactly how I feel! I’m at a loss! We have been here 6 years. The house has so many other (non-aesthetic) issues that we are taking care of, before doing anything like floors, etc. I want to paint soon though, that’s for sure. And I thought a rug might help, I guess I’ll buy a few solid colored runners and return them if anything. Thank you!

If you could paint the grout between the tiles a color more like the tiles, that would tamp down the busyness of the floors.

Yeah I feel the grout is a big problem. Thanks