building a Mediterranean home in the south. It's a fairly open concept. My dilemma: I am putting dark Java wood cabinets in the kitchen. I originally was planning on putting dark engineered hardwood in the family room, entry area. There will be tile in the kitchen. I am concerned that the dark flooring will make the space too dark (since there is not a lot of direct sunlight coming through). My builder is recommending carrying the tile all the way through keeping it light and flowing. He also feels that due to our location by the water that the hardwood will not hold up as well as the tile. I love hardwood and had my heart set on it, but am now questioning that decision Your thoughts?