Put some really cool wallpaper in there

You can try casing around it and add backsplash.

This the bathtub area I was thinking of mosaic or painting

You can add wall paper as suggested - theres is some gorgeous paper out there now. OR you could have custom mural done either directly on the wall or in terms of a custom self stick decal type of mural. What could be stunning is some glass tile design or even a favorite photo of your done on aluminum to custom fit the space.