We are building a modest family home on a lake in Northern Michigan. 2nd story will have an open room for kids' TV and our office/study area. This room is flanked on either side with a bedroom for each of our 2 boys. Knotty pine window trim and on ceiling in open area, pine stairs leading to the upstairs....

We were planning on inexpensive carpet that we knew would get sort of trashed, (so no need for 25 year warranty - we'll probably replace it in 10). Both of the boys are really objecting to carpet. While the 11 and 16 yr olds are not dictating the material decisions of the house, if there is a good option out there, DH and I would love to consider it.

In theory, sand and water won't make it to the second level, but....

We are planning for hardwood downstairs, but looking at Karndean, too. I love love love cork, but am afraid sand will trash it. We keep foot washers outside, but I don't want the house to turn into the "Land of No" with me stressing about the kids and their friends coming inside without scrubbing their feet first.

Any ideas?