I have faux hardwood flooring that is really ceramic tile.. it is dark brown and so durable and easy to clean! I wish I had done the lighter version so the dust wouldn't show as much - then I wouldn't have to clean it as often. The photo you posted would be awesome. My need was to have something a wheelchair could go over after coming in from the outside. It works beautifully.

Cool! Looks interesting.

Lava stone bench is fantastic! You have great taste so I am sure you will make it all work. As with any room, maybe just consider which element you want to be the 'hero' ie. do you want people to notice the benchtop first, the rug? Then play up that feature and blend the rest into the background more. If you have too much going on colour or pattern-wise the different elements of the room will compete with each other and the room won't have it's focus. Love love your bar chairs as well!!! :-)

Just to confirm, by combination washer/dryer, you mean one machine performs both functions, correct? Some years ago, we bought one for our apartment. It was a good brand. It did not dry clothes properly, took forever, many drying cycles, and never dried clothes completely, so I cannot recommend.