Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Please clarify....

I've been doing a lot of reading lately, mainly on this forum. I'm trying to answer a question that has me stalled in my recent renovations. I've installed dupont laminate in the upper level of our 4 level split - the stuff looks great, actually better than I would have expected. I have always been under the impression that laminates do little for the enhancement of your home - they are more or less, a cheap alternative to hardwood or ceramic. Now I'm not saying thats that case - it's just the impression I'm left with after a lt of reading.
Anyway, on to my question - like I said, I like how it turned out and it's now time to make a decision on the living/dining room. Currently this area is carpeted and the adjoining kitchen is done in cork (very pleased with that also!) . So, the plan has always been hardwood but now I'm thinking I might continue on with this sand hickory dupont laminate. My concern is the impact on the homes value (or perceived value) - I don't want to do anything that will have a negative impact.
Sorry for the "1st post" ramble but I wanted to provide a clear picture before asking your advice.... would anyone care to comment?? I know, altimately, I need to make up my own mind but this group seems to be very knowledgable and I could use your help / feedback / opinion.
thanks all

The cork would be very cool through out! and it will increase the value.

Thanks for the reply - I was actually thinking about cork throughout the main floor. The only issue I had was the stairs going up to the bedroom level (which are the same carpet as the living/dining area) - that would mean I would have to go cork up the stairs. I'm not sure the cork I am using has matching nosing and such but I can look into that. Also, the stairs scare me a bit - as per the user name, I'm no expert. Thanks again!

On the hardwoodinstaller.com site, Gary had some pictures posted of a staircase he did in cork, with wood nosings. It was very unique.

On the hardwoodinstaller.com site, Gary had some pictures posted of a staircase he did in cork, with wood nosings. It was very unique.

I must be blind.... I found the site but I can't find this cork stairway pic you are referring to. Would you mind providing a link? I'd really like to see what he has done

thanks again

aesthetically speaking, don't put laminate anywhere near real wood. being able to see the two, at the the same time, side by side, will make the laminate look extra fake & cheap, no matter how nice it now looks by itself upstairs. keep them very separated.

Forum rules here say I can't post links to other sites.

It is in the picture forum of that site. Make a post asking gary to direct you to the pictures or post them again.

Forum rules here say I can't post links to other sites.

It is in the picture forum of that site. Make a post asking gary to direct you to the pictures or post them again.

OK - I found the pic you are referring to! I actually had to join the forum to gain access to the pic file.
Looks pretty good and is similar to the cork I have down - my only change would be that I wouldn't use cork for the risers (probably go with painted wood), and I would want the nosing to a closer match to the shade of the cork.

Thanks for your help on this.