Toilet Tissue Holders

Traditional
The old stand-by style tissue holder still works.  This design consists of two large brackets attached to the wall or counter side.  A spindle fits into them and holds the tissue roll.  The spindle is usually made of two pieces of plastic (or wood or metal) and is spring loaded, so that it can be compressed to move in and out of the brackets.  The good thing about these units is that the tissue cannot slide away or off the spindle as it is rolled.  A down side to these is that it is not uncommon for the spring within the spindle to come out of place and have to be readjusted.

One sided
Another style of toilet tissue holder is designed with only one bracket.  The spindle on these models is more just a rod, usually with some sort of stopper at the empty end to keep the tissue roll from sliding off.  Replacing empty roll is a cinch with these, as there are not springs to deal with.  Simply slip the old roll off the end and slid a new one on.

Upright
If your bathroom is designed so that it would be difficult to install a wall mounted tissue holder, there are other options.  Many companies offer holders which stand on the countertop.  These are smaller versions of what are commonly found in kitchens for paper towel rolls.  They consist simply of a base and a vertical spindle.  The roll sits vertically around the spindle.  They are convenient, though if the base is not attached somehow to the countertop, you may need to use two hands: one to unroll the tissue and one to hold the unit in place.   

Matching the room
Functional design aside, you want a toilet tissue holder that fits in with the look of your room.  Materials for these products vary widely.  There are, of course, the basic plastic models.  These serve their purpose, but often do little to enhance the room.  There are many wood designs, from smooth and sleek to rough and rustic.  Metals are very popular also.  Depending on the other fixtures in your bathroom, you may want to try a chrome or brushed nickel design, or an elegant wrought iron holder.

Perhaps the most fun design we've come across is a toilet tissue holder which doubles as an AM/FM radio.  Reshelve the books sitting on the tank and crank up the tunes.

More information on Tissue Holders