Pictures of your dining room and kitchen would be helpful.

Thanks :) Yeah decided to go with tile. So sand cement is ok over existing tiles if I prep them first? Only problem is, the new pad can only be about 30mm at it's thickest (leaving up to 15mm for tiles) otherwise it'll end up being higher than the hallway floor. So I either need to make the fall shallower or not bother with the waste and make it all level. If I made it level, could I use levelling compound at that thickness or would deck mud/sand cement be the best option? Also, should I be putting in mesh for strength? (I know I should (and will) ask the local hardware what they suggest, but it's great to have suggestions from the Houzz community also)

I haven't put engineered oak floors in my home, but I love the oiled look. What did you decide to go with?

Deep black! Our African Oak Plank 1-Strip exudes natural elegance and class. Would it fit into your home? Plank 1-Strip AFRICAN OAK ID no. 524 777 For more flooring options see our brochures: www.haro.co.nz/brochures Ask for this floor at 0800 427 669 or sales@haro.co.nz