Kitchen decor ideas can jump start your creativity.

Read on for some great ways to improve your kitchen decor

Kitchen decor ideas should come from your own preferences. Don't be swayed by the kitchen cabinet salesman or your mother-in-law. Let your personality be your guide.

• If you love to cook and will be spending a lot of time in the kitchen, efficiency, storage and high tech will be what you are aiming for.
• If your kitchen is a primary hub for the gathering of family and friends, your kitchen decorating plan will be guided by seating and counter space for laying out buffets and perhaps a mini bar area.
• If you have special interests or collectibles, these can be just the inspiration you need for a jumping off point. A window garden or herbs, in interest in wine collecting, or a collection of fiesta ware dishes can all be the starting point of your decor.

Consider an island for storage and efficiency in your kitchen decor ideas

Whether you have a vast amount of space in the center of your kitchen, or a small nook on the corner, an island can be one of the most used sections of your room. Here are some hints that may get your creativity moving for kitchen island ideas:

Choose an island that is in proportion to your room. Larger islands can hold a built in microwave, freeing up valuable counter space, or a bar sink for a second prep area when you are entertaining. It can be a place for guests to have coffee and chat while you work, or a desk for meal planning and bill paying.

If you don't have space for a permanent island, a small island on wheels that can be tucked into a corner when not in use is ideal. This can also be used as a convenient area when more space is needed, or wheeled out onto the patio loaded with ingredients or dishes for your next barbecue. It could even be used by the children for making puzzles or doing homework.

Lighting is a primary concern in the kitchen when considering kitchen decor ideas

Of all the rooms in your home, lighting is most important in the kitchen. Have you ever struggled to look into a dark oven, or squinted your eyes trying to read a recipe in a shaded corner of your kitchen? If so, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Here are some kitchen lighting ideas for you to consider:

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• If there was ever a need for task lighting, this is the room that has top billing. Areas to consider for task lighting in your kitchen decor ideas are the stove and sink areas.
• Don't forget to consider light over the island
• Fluorescent lighting can be installed under the cabinets for lighting counter areas
• When using fluorescent lighting, remember there are both cool and warm lights. Warm fluorescents cast a light that is softer and more flattering
• General lighting can be used in overhead ceiling lights. A hanging lamp looks good over the dining area and a dimmer is great for creating ambience
• If you like to cook with fresh herbs, a window greenhouse fitted with pink "Gro-Lghts" creats a wonderful focal point in the evening

There's Never Enough Storage

If your room is large enough, consider some free standing pieces of furniture for storage in your kitchen decor ideas. A corner cupboard, hutch or armoire can store your china and glassware. They can also be a great focal point for displaying your collection of carnival glass or antique cooking tools.

Other kitchen storage ideas are:

• An iron rack for hanging cookware over the island
• A hanging rack for barware over your entertainment area
• A wire grid hung on the wall near the stove can hold cooking utensils on hooks
• A pegboard by the prep area can hold small kitchen items
• Magnetic knife strips can be mounted under the cabinets for holding knives and other small utensils
• The inside of cupboard doors can be rigged with with bins to hold cleaning supplies and paper goods
• A small wall area can be hung with a cork board, blackboard or magnetic board for the family message center

Use these tips and tricks as a jumping off point

So there you have it. A collection of kitchen decor ideas to inspire you and help you create a kitchen you'll love.

Look through kitchen decorating magazines for ideas that inspire you. Review the floor planning and color pages in this site.

Then with your kitchen workbook pages in hand, start to plan your dream kitchen using these kitchen decor ideas and other great thoughts you've had during your research on creating your perfect kitchen.

Even if you are only thinking of redecorating, it only takes a few small changes to make you feel really good about using your creativity.

Create an environment that makes you feel happy and good about your life and your surroundings. Make your kitchen a room where people gather together to enjoy good food, good friends, and find joy in everyday living.

Bon Appetit!