1. hardwood - is ok, go with the color of the kicthen cabinets and or accent color. think about transition piece between kitchen and the other areas.2. slate - very durable. go with 12x12 . size depends on the sq f of the kitchen3. do u have an island, r u planning to chanmge the kicthen/4. laminat is durable - go with the premium one 9cork bottom, snap installation).5. granite is good - to match with the backsplash6. lime stone travertino - seal it and of course - the tiny holes of the natural stone - not my favorite in practicality, but looks good;0 big 12x12 squares, can mix and match colors - needs a good tile installer.7. marble is prone to scratches. a lot. so think twice.8. cork is ok to - seal it.