Norminn wrote:

I have never seen linoleum tiles that looked good or adhered well. If
there are no missing or broken
tiles, you might be ahead by just removing some grout and putting in
new grout. Fairly substantial
job, but done right will make tile look a good deal better.

I think his real problem is that black-and-white tiles look so, so... retro
and his current squeeze has a highly delicate sense of style, panache, and
flair.

I like your idea of a rug. I'd even go so far as to suggest colored
lighting...