I tend to not like back splashes in general, but I really like the brick back splash and the archway above going on in this kitchen.  It has kind of a pizzeria thing going.   It's stylish and practical and homey.  And I love a good indoor brick...

This is more of a place marker for an idea more suited for us- the giant, weathered cribbage board.  It would fit really well in a long space like this or over our crazy long couch.