Modern bathrooms have come a long way from busy carpeting and wall paper. Instead, designs are intended to create a space that is minimalist but still inviting and functional. Designer bathrooms don't have to have an upscale price. In this article, we'll show you how to give your bathroom a fresh new look without spending a lot of money.

Many modern, designer bathrooms are modeled after some of the world's most luxurious spas. The goal is to create a place where you can relax and recharge your batteries. The room should have a color theme that you find soothing.

Among the most popular colors are cool blues, purples, greens and pinks. Add soft, frosted lighting, some elegant bathroom wall mirrors and beautiful greenery for a very calming effect. If you have a spacious master suite, consider a day bed for lounging on after a bath as part of your design.

This will allow you to be alone in absolute comfort. If you don't have the space for a day bed, check out bed and bath shops for bath pillows. These pillows have suction cups that attach to the tub to comfortably support your neck and head as you soak.

Beautiful bathrooms can also be created using edgier, darker colors accented with white and highly polished marble and steel, for an avant guard feel. These ultra modern designs can feature striking pedestal sinks with graceful lines and classic claw-foot tubs that almost seem like sculptures.

For elegant touches, add accessories such as soap dishes, cups and toothbrush decanters made of pewter or black porcelain vases in egg shapes filled with pussy willows. If you really want to spoil yourself, install an electric floor warmer to heat the tiles and a chrome towel warmer so that you can wrap yourself in luxurious comfort on cold days.

Whether you're into traditional styles or something more contemporary, the most important element in modern bathrooms is comfort. Fixtures have undergone a renaissance in recent years and are now available in styles, colors and materials for every taste. When selecting your pieces, evaluate them for comfort, durability and functionality.

If the goal of your room is relaxation, opt for items with flowing lines and cool, soothing colors. If you require something more functional for a bathroom that sees a lot of traffic, choose fixtures that are sturdy and easy to maintain.

New bathrooms don't have to cost big bucks if you choose your pieces wisely. If your fixtures are in good shape, creating a modern bathroom may be as simple as changing the color of your paint or updating the pattern of a tile backsplash.

To create a room that is up to date and polished, aim for a look that is pulled together. Many department stores sell pre-coordinated towel, mat and accessory sets that are great for one stop bathroom shopping. No matter which color or design you select, if you're comfortable when soaking in your tub, you know that you've made the right choice.