Top Ten Ways to Update the Look of Your Bathroom

Which would you rather have in your home's bath, a replay of the 90's or a relaxing, Zen-like ambiance? Fortunately, it's easy to update your bathroom's look. Try these ideas to create a home spa worth savoring.

Color
Because bathrooms are typically smaller rooms, using a monochromatic color scheme is a great way to create a soothing atmosphere. But using a single color doesn't mean you have to stick with the same intensity and value. For example, if you've chosen a warm, earthy brown for your walls, you might use colorful glass soap dispensers or other decorative items in golden taupe or beach blue.

Lighting
If your existing lighting fixtures have good lines, you might be able to get away with a coat of paint and new bulb shades to freshen them up. Here's a tip for tying decor together and keeping your look unified: use glass bath accessories with some of the same features your bulb shades have. If the shades are frosted, fluted, or sculpted, echo those elements in the accessories you choose.

Bathroom Accessories
Ditch the pink fuzzy bath mat and replace it with something more organic, like bamboo or woven cotton. It's a quick update that looks sophisticated. Try pairing your new bath mat with other elemental pieces, like recycled glass soap dispensers.

Declutter
Nothing detracts from your bathroom more than a lot of plastic bottles perched on every available surface. Glass soap dispensers are good for more than holding soap. Use waterproof glue to attach a bit of shelf liner to the base of each soap dispenser and decant lotion, shampoo, or conditioner into them instead of leaving unsightly bottles out. One note: you may want to keep the soap dispensers with metal pumps on the sink rather than in the shower to avoid rust and falls.

Fixtures
Plumbing fixtures can also date your bathroom rather quickly. Trade in your plastic and chrome model for one in a bronzed or brushed nickel finish. You can still go for chrome if you like, but try something with more graceful lines than the old set. If you get soap dispensers with metal pumps, match the finish on them to your new fixtures.

Flooring
Shag carpet went out of style in the 80's. Instead, try a waterproof option. From cool slate tile to laminate that mimics the look of wood without the hassle, it's easy to find the flooring choice that's right for you.

Candles
There's nothing quite as relaxing as a long, hot soak in the tub by candlelight. If you need candle-holders, get creative. Use glass bath accessories like soap trays or tumblers to hold your candles while you de-stress.

Mirrors
Mirrors can make a small room seem much bigger. Place small mirrors in key places. If the mirror over your sink is plain, consider creative framing with found wood or branches. Recycled glass soap dispensers would complete the rustic look nicely.

Seating
If you have room in your bath, consider adding a chair, stool or bench. Use it to keep clean clothes off the wet floor, or to make it easier to remove socks and shoes before bathing.

Toilet
Especially if you have a pink porcelain monstrosity, now is the perfect time to update your toilet. Try one of the newer dual flush models to conserve water and improve the look of your bathroom.