backsplash to beadboard

Beginning Saturday, our kitchen will be undergoing some major changes. The awesome fellas in my life finished laying the flooring in that part of the house so we’re almost ready to dive into the full kitchen renovation. We also sent in the final measurements for our granite the other day... I cannot accurately depict my shock and awe at how itsy-bitsy things like a backsplash or an extra few inches for a bar can add up. Well, my sticker shock inspired some ingenuity and got me looking at backsplash alternatives. I have to admit, I had never really paid attention to what I like in that department until today and I made quite a discovery. I think I subconsciously have this aversion to backsplashes that are created using the same material as the counter. These are my top two favorite kitchen photos that I’ve had stashed for a while now and (big surprise) guess what they both lack...

{yep...}

{... no counter-extended backsplash in sight}

However, I’m admittedly far too messy of a cook to brave no backsplash at all. So after some exploring I think I found my solution: beadboard. The 2 photos below are my "beadboard-backsplash" inspiration. I’m thinking I’ll definitely go with white and give them a few good coats of semi-gloss. I’m just hoping that the end result will be as practical as is attractive. 

{our counters won’t be white of course, but cabinets will, so the net affect should be similar}

{no, this is not beadboard, but it’s the same look... and our flooring and walls are similar to coloring in this these}

Oh, and the other benefit to installing beadboard over a tile or something of that sort? No grouting, hallelujah! If there is one project in which I hope to never partake it is grouting... I’m far more handy with nails and staples. One confession before I wrap this up: I have never seen beadboard used this way from what I can remember, so... if you have any experience with the stuff I’m all ears!