Thanks chaps for the responses. I do move the speakers around regularly, so the SuperSpikes are still favourite. Also, I am already dreading the sound changes as Paul has mentioned, but part of the "deal" is that we get a bigger (and additional) rug, and will also be bolstering up the cushion count (sorry!) as well as getting heavier curtains, and a bean-bag or three to help absorb the reflections.

Pretty much decided that "engineered wood" is the way to go (if we must) as it is not as reflective, slippy or as resonant as laminate, as well as looking and feeling nicer, but without the alleged drawbacks of solid wood.