http://www.dream-kitchen-backsplash.com/stainless-steel-backsplash.html#sthash.WylmRsLc.dpbs The Benefits of Stainless Steel: Easy to clean Unaffected by heat Attractive Lasts for a lifetime Does not corrode or get darker with age The Downsides of Stainless Steel: Expensive Can be dented This article did state that the gauge (thickness) of the steel used, determined how easily it might dent... Can be scratched May require polishing to rejuvenate it's luster - See more at: http://www.dream-kitchen-backsplash.com/stainless-steel-backsplash.html#sthash.WylmRsLc.dpuf

If you love the marble tile, go for it! You can always buy a stainless or white range hood backsplash like this http://www.wayfair.com/Air-King-Range-Hood-Back-Splash-SP2430-AXK1174.html to slip in place when you are cooking something really messy. I have a travertine backsplash and use a stainless sheet when frying. It works great and no worries about stains ruining the stone.

The backsplash near the hob should preferably not be glass as the heat produced near the stove causes the glass to break due to continuous heating and cooling which makes the glass crack over a few months... Pavithra Praveen Pravisree Kitchens Bangalore

You could go for tiles with design if they are simple ones. if you want plain, you can add some life in the country style with an exposed brick facade or subway tiles. for colours, it depends on how far out of your comfort zone you're willing to go. white is the safe choice, but you can go for blue, green, yellow, all pastel hues