If the floor is staying the same? Try a backsplash that incorporates the color and texture. Backsplash should stop at your corner, then continue from just past to the end. Try white textured wallpaper on the walls. They have it in many raised designs which are also paintable should you get bored. The border is a great idea as it adds visual interest and draws the eye up. It's a pity they stopped making the Alexander Julian paper and border for Lowes because if installed right in your kitchen? It would have been the perfect border for you. It may still be found, but the search would be challenging.

Continue your backsplash all the way around including returns - from countertop to under cabinetry.
Obviously remove the wallpaper border.
What is your countertop colour and did you tie it into the existing flooring or are you replacing that too?
You should post a photo of the paint for cabinetry, countertop and flooring choices.

Not a fan of textured wallpaper in and around the kitchen/ cooking area - go with tile, its easier to clean.

I haven't picked anything out yet. I like the idea of white cabinets with a darker brown flecked countertop that complements the black in the appliances and maybe white beadboard backsplash with a light brownish floor tile? If I go ahead with that combo, what color for the walls? Same white as cabinets, just in a matte finish? Am I missing an opportunity for some color or is it more important for it to flow visually?

I also like a tile backsplash, will have to look at samples.

Wallpaper was suggested for walls, not areas involving grease. White paintable IS washable and scrub able and more reasonably priced. They have vinyl tile kits, but the color spectrums are varied in every kit I've seen. It really depends on your budget? If you want to maintain one color as stated, texture was an obvious suggestion to make to you. Papering or painting the corner wall as it transitions from dishwasher to cabinetry will provide a fresh break for the eye and maintain the space and feeling of openness. Love your idea for crown moulding. I thought the same! I don't automatically assume someone's a Rockefeller when they ask for design opinions. Some high end options can skyrocket a budget and you can't take your kitchen with you. You can take a cruise with money spent where it counts. On yourself and what makes you happy. :-)

http://houzz.com/photos/2600320

The whole idea book is what you're looking for and why it's a good idea. I truly think you'll like it

My kitchen needs a major upgrade (mostly I hate the blue ocean laminate countertops the previous owner picked when he built the house. Ugh!). But I did paint it the same color as in the photo above and there's not a day that I'm not happy I did. FWIW!

Now go on that cruise! You've earned it painter extraordinaire!