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When we see wallpaper in kitchens, we most often see it as a backsplash, used instead of tile. But we wonder about keeping it clean, especially in a small kitchen, where grease and gunk tends to splatter everywhere. The snakeskin, above, is a vinyl that's supposedly easier to wipe clean.

You can also cover the wallpaper in glass, like the blue and white panel above...

...or use wallpaper on an accent wall (keep the cost down).

We think kitchens can sometimes be too streamlined and simple. Why not treat it more like a living room and add some pattern and pizzaz? But what are your thoughts?

Related: TV Kitchens: Mad Men

(Images: John Kernick for House Beautiful; Paul Costello and Laura Resen for Domino)