We have just replaced our engineered wood flooring (which lasted 3 years) with a range called The Family Floor. We did loads of research for a flooring that was both sustainable, and not imported from China. The Family Floor is a hybrid engineered wood, so it has a really durable (like LVT) wear layer, and is really thin. It also has a cork fixed underlay. So far we absolutely love it. We fitted it ourselves throughout our kitchen diner. And it's made in Italy. I highly recommend

More info here, I hope it helps https://naturaflooring.co.uk/blogs/news/what-is-the-family-floor

I love the floor in your photos! Seriously though I would recommend Karndean LVT, installed by a Platinum registered fitter. We’ve had ours in all rooms including the kitchen for almost ten years and it looks like new. We choose a light oak effect and some visitors think it really is wood. Not cheap by any means but can’t recommend it highly enough. Ours was fitted with the kitchen in place, extending under the kick boards. Here’s some examples of their tile effect ranges.

Those tile effect ones are bloody gorgeous!!!!

We had a flooring company round today in fact. Karndean was their suggestion too. They also had a cheaper option from Belgium (forget the name). He recommended doing the floor before the kitchen is fitted. Feels like a huge waste when a lot will be covered by units or an island!

I was very tempted with a herringbone pattern, which feels fitting to the age of the house. However it's so over exposed and hyper trendy, I'm leaning away from it.

Plank effect wood is the alternative I guess?

I also love the idea of a border (that tiled effect or herringbone) but the fitter didn't recommend it as it'll be largely covered up with furniture. Said its nice on the tiny bit of a room on Pinterest but it's wasted in the rest of the room.

As far as fitting the flooring before or after the kitchen units is concerned, there are pros and cons of both so you and your fitter must weigh those up before coming to a decision. Karndean LVT in wood effect, whether planks or herringbone would be timeless and as you say, would certainly be in keeping with the age of your house. However if you chose a tiled effect and wanted a border, this could be done around the units and island after installation so it would be visible.

Based on your comments and kitchen style (period-inspired shaker), practical concerns (cold underfoot, large space), and the tile veto, the winner here is clearly Engineered Wood. Some pros and cons are listed below:

• Tiles: Your dream is noted, but they're out due to spousal veto (the "Spanish" comment is classic lol!).
• LVT/LVP (Luxury Vinyl Tile/Plank): This is a very strong runner-up. It's practical, warm underfoot, and can look amazing. However, in a 1920s/30s property (even an extension), engineered wood has an authenticity and warmth that LVP can struggle to replicate perfectly. It can sometimes feel a bit "commercial" or modern.
• Solid Wood: Can be prone to movement, especially with underfloor heating or significant temperature changes from those French doors.
• Laminate: Generally not on par with the quality of the rest of your spec.

I think engineered would be the best compromise based on:

• Warmth & Comfort: Much warmer underfoot than tile and has a natural, soft feel.
• Authenticity: It provides the period-appropriate look you're after for your shaker kitchen. A wide plank, character-grade engineered wood will feel right at home.
• Stability: Its layered construction makes it more stable than solid wood, ideal for a kitchen environment and over potential underfloor heating.
• Durability: A good quality, thick wear layer can be sanded and refinished several times over its life, making it a long-term investment.

At Woodfloors4u we specialise in Engineered and Solid Wood floors. We also stock LVT dry back and click, and laminates. If you would like to discuss the project feel free to give the team a shout on 020 8500 1940 or via our webiste where you can also order samples free of charge www.woodfloors4u.co.uk

With a shaker kitchen and those colours, I’d lean towards either a soft, natural oak look or a calm stone-effect LVT. Both will sit nicely with the grey and blue/green without stealing attention.

If you want warmth, go wood-look. If you want something more neutral and slightly more “period-feeling”, go stone look. Given your husband’s not keen on tiles, a good quality LVT is probably the easiest middle ground.

Colour-wise, I’d avoid anything too yellow or too dark. A mid to light tone will keep it feeling bright and work with your off-white walls.

And I’d always do the flooring after the kitchen is fitted (apart from appliances if needed), especially with things like a pantry. It saves material and avoids awkward cuts later.

Honestly, with that scheme, a calm floor will make everything else shine.