I would go with laminate, in a ligh-med shade (doesn't show dust bunnies, or threads). Get the best grade that you can afford and check to make sure its durability. My son bought some laminate made in germany, and even rolling appliances over it didn't mar it. when he cut it with a saw, it was so hard that it sparked. Nine years later, 4 kids, 20 or more dogs (rescues german shepherds), a damp mop brings it back to like new. As a realtor, vinyl is a turn off, and can reduce the "eye value" in a resale.