As a homeowner, you know how important it is to undertake remodeling work on your home every few years. Timely remodeling gives your home a much required makeover and it also increases the value of your property should you choose to sell your home. Bathroom remodeling is one of the most expensive remodeling projects and therefore it should be well planned and executed. Before doing any remodeling work in your bathroom, it is important to consider what type of renovations you want and the extent of the same. If you have any special needs, like fitting in a second bathroom sink or installing a new bathtub, then you need to carefully plan these beforehand. If extensive remodeling is required where you change the layout of the bathroom, then it is best to hire a contractor who can better guide you on how to go about things. Whatever renovations you might be considering, it is always best to know about the latest trends in bathroom remodeling. This will help you to update the design and ambiance of the bathroom in keeping with the latest trends. Given below are some of the most popular and bathroom remodeling trends of 2012. Latest Bathroom Remodeling Trends The overall design trends in bathrooms is more relaxed with a modern minimalistic approach that looks polished but with a touch of whimsy. High ceilings, double vanities, soft, neutral colors on walls, use of natural stone for bathtub surrounds and shower walls and rich flooring materials are some of the key trends in bathroom remodeling 2012. His and Her Vanities Double vanities or his and her vanities are an emerging bathroom remodeling trend. It not only gives a stylish look to the bathroom but it is functional as well. A double bathroom vanity in dark wood paneling combined with bowl shaped marble sinks is a great investment. You can even opt for a floating double vanity in a material like granite or marble. The space behind the floating double vanity can be utilized for installing glass cabinets. Ceiling Height Mirrors A wall sized mirror installed in front of the vanity is one of the key bathroom remodeling trends. It not only gives the space a luxurious look but also makes the bathroom appear larger. The wall sized mirror should be installed along with a trimming of crown molding in a sleek but matte finish for an elegant look. The crown molding will act as the frame for the mirror and give the bathroom a regal and luxurious ambiance. Installing a wall size mirror is a relatively inexpensive project and is one of the best bathroom remodeling ideas. Modern Bathroom Lighting One of the most overlooked elements in bathroom décor is bathroom lighting. While remodeling a bathroom, pay close attention to the lighting as it contributes heavily to the overall ambiance of the bathroom. Installing ceiling mounted light fixtures is one of the best ways to achieve diffused and soft lighting in the bathroom. For task lighting, you can install two wall sconces on either side of the bathroom mirror. Modern bathrooms require contemporary bathroom lighting fixtures in geometrical designs in nickel, chrome or steel. These types of lighting fixtures enhance the look of the bathroom. Stone Tiles on Shower Walls Although ceramic and porcelain tiles look great in a bathroom, nowadays, the use of stone tiles are more in vogue. Stone tiles impart a natural spa like ambiance in the bathroom. The trick in using this trend successfully is to use stone tiles as an accent and not overdo it. Just install textured stone tiles on one of the walls of the bathroom which surrounds the shower for a minimalistic look. Stone tiles used as a shower wall surround, when combined with glass shower doors look modern and stylish. River stones can also be used to cover the shower floor. Custom Cabinetry No bathroom is complete or functional without bathroom cabinets. You need a place to store your bath towels, toiletries and bathroom cleaning supplies. A bathroom cabinet is required for storing these essential bathroom supplies which would otherwise clutter the countertop. Custom-built bathroom cabinets in simple designs are ideal for storage. Storage cabinets built under the bathroom vanities are not only makes efficient use of space but also looks very trendy and chic. Paint bathroom cabinets in off white or any other pale color to give a spa like calming ambiance. Natural Flooring Material One of the easiest ways to give a bathroom a makeover is to use natural flooring material. Slate tiles, travertine and limestone are some natural flooring materials that gives the bathroom a warm and rugged appearance. This type of flooring matches harmoniously with modern minimalistic bathroom décor. If you can afford the upkeep, then you can even consider a marble flooring for the bathroom. Marble flooring reflects light and gives a luxurious and opulent ambiance to the bathroom. Pale and Neutral Colors This year, bathroom color trends lean heavily towards pale and neutral colors. Off white, beige, navy, rust, gold, copper, peach and dove gray are some of the most popular colors in bathroom décor. You can use these colors in bathroom floor and wall tiles, bathroom countertops and cabinets. These were some bathroom remodeling trends 2012. Unlike fashion trends, bathroom design trends are relatively stable and there are no major changes that take place each season. If you have decided to remodel your bathroom, then keep these trends in mind but make sure that they fulfill your needs too.