If you have been dreaming of an elegant, luxurious bathroom but the budget is keeping you from a total remodel, consider making a few changes that will update the look.

White on white is no longer an acceptable bathroom décor. Most homeowners want color and accessories to create an atmosphere that is not too sterile but a reflection of the entire home.

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Paint and Textures

There is no doubt that the quickest and easiest update is to change the walls. A refreshing new color is a great way to make a big impact on an outdated bathroom.

Consider a color that may be more dramatic than other rooms in your home. This is one area that can handle the color and often needs it. Explore the current color trends, such as soft brown, tranquil turquoise, fresh greens or even exotic reds. The powder room is a great place to surprise your guests with a little drama.

Need some inspiration, try touring designer showhouses or model homes that always have the latest in color trends.

Interior designer Margaret Donaldson chose a fresh turquoise and white color scheme in the master bath of the 2006 Southern Living Idea House located in Charleston, S.C.

"I always watch fashion, and I had noticed the year before that turquoise was a hot clothing color. The bath color choice was selected to play off the master bedroom color scheme," said Donaldson.

Another way to add excitement to a boring bathroom is with wall texture created by various techniques. Perhaps you would like an old world feel and would enjoy the rough textures such as an aged stucco faux finish. Research the process and decide if you are ready for a do-it-yourself project or need to hire an artist experienced in this type of wall finish.

Incorporate Furniture

If a bathroom has sufficient space, consider adding small furniture pieces such as an antique chest for storage. Even a small bench or chair is practical and adds warmth to the room. One of the top requests from women is a vanity table with bench. This can be custom designed as a built-in, or you can purchase an elegant vanity to adorn with fabric and all the feminine touches.

When making decisions on what items to bring into the bath area, think of convenience. You might even use a piece of furniture currently owned to add a personal touch to your bath.

"I often incorporate an interesting chest or unique accent piece that creates just the right look," said Donaldson.

Lovely Reflections

One major accessory, and a very necessary one, is the mirror. This has become an important item for creating a desired look -- not just for you, but for your bathroom -- and is replacing the unframed mirrors often installed over sinks.

Add the drama needed for an elegant formal look by selecting a large hand-carved framed mirror, or choose an etched Florentine mirror to create Hollywood glamour for the bath. A slightly more masculine look can be achieved with a framed round mirror. If your taste leans toward traditional, look at vintage or antique reproductions that offer a lovely reflection over your sink.

Donaldson showed a clever use of mirrors.

"What really started the idea was that during construction, I realized the space only allowed for a 5-foot tub," she said. "Instead of the large double vanity, I decided to use that space for a larger Jacuzzi tub and then place two smaller vanities elsewhere. By adding the recessed panels with mirror inserts, I created elegance and stability but also opened the room up."

If you would like to see this fresh sparkling idea, take a virtual tour on her web site.

Accent For Convenience

Consider shelving to display a special collection of perfume bottles or pretty containers for the necessities.

Replacing old, outdated towel holders is a great way to add a fresh new look to the bath. Perhaps wrought iron holders would create the rustic look you prefer, or sleek pewter styles would add the perfect modern touch. Don't forget about towel warmers, and make sure you are adding towel holders where they are convenient.

Many master suites are including built-in televisions for viewing the morning news and audio equipment for your favorite relaxing music.

Finishing Touches

Artwork is also becoming an important accessory for bathrooms and can often pull a theme together.

Designers often suggest unusual rugs, such as the new shaggy styles in bold colors or elegant Orientals for more traditional themes. Add a sense of whimsy with hand-hooked rugs crafted with themes such as nautical designs, bold modern designs, vibrant florals and tropical themes.

Towels embroidered with elegant designs or inserts of fabric, along with matching shower curtains, soap dispensers and tissue holders, are available at most department stores.

Visiting your local linen shop will get you up to date on the great color trends for towels including turquoise, apple greens, bright pinks and relaxing blues. By adding fresh new towels, you can be sure your bathroom will have color and pizzazz.

Decide on a color scheme, fun theme or fresh ambiance, and your boring bathroom can be transformed with a few basic changes.

More Resources

• Try Hot Flooring Trends
• Put Your Home In The History Books
• Painting Trends Make An Impact