If you're installing over a concrete slab that could possibly shift over the years, the ideal scenario would involve an uncoupling membrane like Prodeso's that sits under the tile to help prevent cracking. However, this does add some height to the floor which would not work if you're only adding new tile to one side of the floor.

I think if you want to keep the area a seamless transition for height without drawing too much attention to the differing floor types, that the second option sounds best with the tile border. If you're going for wood - looking tile, perhaps use just that to create a border where it buts up against the existing tile. Or find something that brings in colors from both floors so that it feels more cohesive.

I'm not fond of a wood transition between two tile floors. Of course it is an easy install...ahem...easy on the installer that is. The Schluter system is correct. It has been used hundreds of thousands of times (should I say millions of times...who's to say the number but it is A LOT!).

If a slab that has concerns with cracking/movement (and they all have SOME sort of movement whether it be a little or a lot....so be aware) should have a decoupling membrane. And just to be clear carpet HIDES some HORRIBLE substrates. I mean *GASP* SPUTTER* HORROR* type concrete. Why you ask? Because BUILDERS know that carpet hides HORRIBLE workmanship. Ergo a carpeted slab will be MUCH uglier than a slab prepared for tile.

Here's what you are looking for in a tiling professional: https://www.tile-assn.com/

You want to WRITE OUT the contract so that it states: "To be installed per NTCA Specifications AND per tile manufacturer's instructions."

And a 1 year labour warranty is standard stuff in the building industry. You are looking at a substantial installation (if we estimate the labour alone will be $10-$12/sf and the tile/materials will be EXTRA) somewhere in the range of 500sf - 600sf (or so)??? Your quote MAY NOT include "subfloor preparation". If it DOES....please ask for the guestimate they have provided for the subfloor. If they have estimated $0.50/sf for concrete work, then they are too low. If they have estimated a MAXIMUM of $4/sf (not to exceed this amount without your written approval) then they are more in keeping with reality.

I would stick with the person who is well acquainted with the NTCA guidelines, if not a member, the person who INCLUDES the cost of a decoupling membrane, who INCLUDES the high-priced estimate for slab prep as part and parcel of his quote....and then the person who includes the Schluter system as part of the transition between floors.

Please notice how the transition is FAR down the list. Right. There are some more important things that need to be dealt with other than the final look. And Schluter has DOZENS of transition options which work with floors AND/OR wall settings. The appropriate option will be looked at before anything is laid.

I agree this is a large amount of money no matter what you choose and to be honest I prefer good quality laminate to cheap ENG wood for longevity in a well used space.I have laminate from a company from Germany it has stood up to many large parties 40+ guests, 3 huge dogs and I run a catering biz from my home. The company name is Kronotex and they have dist. in the US.I really dislike tile everywhere unless you live in tropics plus the fact it is hard on your back, knees and feet.I would do all the floors including the kitchen .BTW way schluter makes trim pieces for all kinds of different installations

Check out Schluter Transition

We have Bella Cera Engineered Hardwood throughout our home. Holds up very well.