Focal points are used to draw your attention to either a particular area or a beautiful combination of materials. In kitchen design, there may be a few focal points, but the range/cook top, hood area is an important one. I tell customers, especially if you’re on a budget, that back splash tile is a place to spend extra money. First, there isn’t that much of it, so it won’t break the bank, and second, the back splash is right in your face.