Porcelain is a tough tile which will not crack or break easily. they are very long lasting. vinyl is out dated and just doesn't look good. Your other option should be ceramic tiles. So it should be between ceramic and porcelain. I'd still recommend porcelain but ceramic is cheaper, that's the biggest advantage of ceramic. I bought these porcelain tiles two weeks ago, they look lovely. beautiful hexagon porcelain tiles

oh old post to practice, the obvious choice is first floor extention but this only if the ground foundation on the back supports for this floor. Its mirroring the outer wall of the ground floor so enough area, there also alternative option of cantilever steel beams or concrete floor slab for first floor side extention though maybe need additional permit . Bedroom 3 will slightly Bigger than original, Plan A Plan B - Very Narrow Hallway Plan C - With Cantilever

Rinked, I also considered that, but the table and chairs would block access to the back garden. The front extension would significantly block most of the south-facing light in the living area, the back double doors, are north-facing so they don't bring in any light. So while I agree that you need some sort of entrance into the home, The front extension is a mistake in my opinion. In regards to the comment of keeping the passage, yes it's good to have, however, soo many people who live in terrace houses don't have that option and I don't see that as a significant issue.

I'd also be inclined to swap them as Jonathan suggested. Check fire regulations, as perhaps you do need to rotate the stairs to allow an open kitchen. (I'm in the Netherlands so can't advise on these.)