I just redecorated my kitchen and did wood. It is next to my living room which already had original wood flooring. Aside from my husband who loves carpet (eeewwww), everyone I know likes wood.

Wood is great and easier on the legs....... If you have wood in adjacent rooms do your best to match what is already there.

If you do wood, go with solid hardwood. I know there are going to be some people out there who have the "engineered" hardwood line that a high end engineered can work in a kitchen...but that's just it - it must be HIGH END engineered hardwood that is site finished to prevent damage from water (which is going to happen).

There are some beautiful engineered products out there...but they start moving into the mid-range solid hardwood prices.

I'm not a "tile" person. I work/walk on cork all day - so I'm now spoilt for anything other than this finish - which means a tiled surface is not something I would choose.

A hardwood floor in a kitchen is almost on the "luxury" end of the finishings. It is rare AND sought after in a home...but only if it is done well.

I would love to introduce you to my company www.mirthstudio.com- colorful patterned hardwood floor tiles. We produce tiles that are made if wood so you can have the best of both worlds! They are available in over 100 designs and come with a 25 year warranty!