How about a nice seagrass or jute rug. The color and texture would hide messes and it's durable and affordable. They're also very popular these days.

I agree with Lake Girl -- we have a faux "jute" rug on our enclosed porch, and it can be hosed down to be cleaned. I think it would hold up beautifully in a kitchen.

If you want more color, I just love Dash and Albert. Great price points, too.

Here is a link that might be useful: fun casual rugs

Did you check out Dash & Albert?

Here is a link that might be useful: Dash & Albert

Have you ever seen a floorcloth? It is a piece of canvas that is painted and sealed with polyurethane. It functions exactly like linoleum flooring but looks so much more attractive and all spills wipe right up.

I had one in my last home (it is rolled up now in my basement - no room in this current house). I always got many compliments on it - it was like a work of art. I had it custom made from a woman in Vermont.

See the room views in the attached link:

Here is a link that might be useful: Canvasworks Floorcloths