I'm also considering the Korlock by Karndean for our extension (open plan kitchen/living and dining). The open plan area is north facing with plenty of sun exposure and I am also concerned about the discolouration over time. We also have a pet and young children is on the outlook, so would be interested on any feedback around durability and whether it's as 'waterproof' as all the sales people say. If it helps, I'm located in a suburb of Melbourne.

I love the idea of vinyl planks for a bedroom. Here are our professional thoughts: They are great for allergy sufferers and pet owners and are still soft underfoot and not cold like tiles. If you are scared of loosing the warmth of carpet I recommend using a rug in the space. I suggest this for most of the houses we work on as rugs are replaceable and you have more freedom of changing them around and keeping the beautiful base of vinyl planks, whilst carpet you are stuck with the one kind and it can easily get dirty, collect dust and eventually smell. Vinyl planks are much more durable and adding a decor rug on top works beautifully. I have recently written an article on my website about how rugs work well if you are interested in getting a few pointers on them: https://www.jfistudios.com.au/single-post/April-top-tip-2018  Don't hesitate to contact me if you are wanting more advice on which vinyls to go for.

Thank you cazzie8 .... that's good to know how the vinyl planks go in a family environment. We currently have Fraser Island hardwood floors throughout the upstairs level of our 2 storey house that we're renovating. And while they are beautiful.... they weren't in great condition when we bought the house. We didn't bother sanding and polishing prior to moving in as we have two young kids and at the time, our german shepherd pup so didn't want them brought back to new - just in case they got wrecked. Thank god we didn't as with the kids toys, wheelie walkers (when we first got here) and how rough they can be at times when wanting to drag our timber dining chairs all over the floor to make a train (GAH!!!!), they are scratched and scuffed ... given our personal circumstances, it isn't easy for us to remove all our furniture for a few days to have them sanded and polished again. I think once the kids grow up and aren't so accidentally destructive, polished timber floors would be beautiful - but it's just not a good idea at this point in our lives. I love love love timber and my great grandfather and his brothers were well known timberfellers back in their day.... might have to get my timber fix in the new build through some shelving, a large dining table and other key pieces ;)

I’ve spent the better part of a decade scoffing at luxury vinyl planks. And I still think the name is a misnomer BUT I’ve been sold on the appearance and wearability of the current generation product. Have a look at Oak and Orange. On the web and Insta. They’ve used it in a range of family homes.