Painted floors were popular around the Victorian era. A common scheme was a large black and white checkerboard pattern, I believe that is what influenced some of the early lineoleum. Borders were also painted around the perimeter of a den or great room, many times these could be quite elaborate.
All paint jobs are dependent on the prep, you may have to strip off the old finish(es) if there is any chance of it being waxed. Paint has come a long way since then and most any good paint designated for floors should yield good results. Personally, I would go with the 2-part paints that are used for boat decks, that's one tough paint.