Floors!

In general we are attempting to restore the original elements of the house that are within our budget. One of the big surprises that we uncovered during our initial visits to the house was a lovely, rich, red linoleum in the kitchen. At that time we only felt comfortable lifting up a corner of the carpet (yes, carpeted kitchen) so we weren't sure what the condition of the linoleum would be. Unfortunately, we won't be able to restore the original linoleum...

Instead, we will be using Forbo Marmoleum sheet flooring to recreate the original. We have another Marmoleum product (click, floating floor) in our current home and LOVE IT. Linoleum is rich, warm, soft, and a bio-based product made from linseed. We will attempt to match the original color.

Much to our surprise, we discovered that the stairs to the basement are also covered in red linoleum and in MUCH better shape. No need to redo these, we are willing to live with the small amount of damage from the carpet install.

Sadly, a new surprise was awaiting us under the carpet in the dining area. Likely during the installation of all that lovely carpet, we think that Mother S1 requested that the floor people nail down the parquet tiles so that they wouldn't squeak. Eeeeks. What to do????