While we love showing off a bathroom's tile work, extra storage, or a feature like a water closet or clawfoot bathtub, we rarely like to think about what occurs behind the scenes: specifically, the plumbing or the drains.

Yet since 2020, exposed plumbing has been a rising trend, according to design experts. In fact, if you've been worried that you can't hide the pipe system behind drywall, flaunt it! Manufacturers, including Kingston Brass, now create stylized supply lines in industrial-inspired finishes meant to be seen — and admired.

Exposed decorative plumbing adds personality to a basic bathroom. What's more, the finish you choose can either soften the industrial look, play it up as much as you want, or add a refreshing retro feel.

When working with stylized plumbing fixtures, it's important to remember to coordinate with the bathroom's tiles and other fixtures, including towel bars, towel rings, grab bars, and robe hooks. Beyond that, feel free to experiment, perhaps with a finish different from what you currently have.

For instance, matte black finishes are popular among mid-range and high-end brands because they're perfected for bathroom use, so they won't wear off. Brass plumbing pipes are long-lasting and excellent for hot water and large distribution systems. They're rust-resistant when made of 67% to 85% copper, and they add a sparkle of luxury.

Here are a few ways to incorporate exposed plumbing in a bathroom that's aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.

Angle Stop Valves

Also known as shut-off valves, angle stop valves cut off water flow to a single appliance or fixture, so a homeowner doesn't have to switch off the main supply valve to repair, say, the toilet or the washing machine.

Try this one in matte black, a premium color finish that resists tarnish and corrosion. It has an anti-seize stainless steel ball pattern valve, high-quality brass construction, a quarter-turn operation, and a lever handle that meets ADA guidelines.

We also carry a vintage version in other finishes, including brushed brass, brushed nickel, polished brass, and oil-rubbed bronze.

Straight Valve Stops

Another type of shut-off valve, straight valve stops, typically installs where the supply line comes through the floor, as opposed to angle stop valves, which install at a 90-degree angle from a supply line stemming from the wall. Whichever type of valve you need, using an elegant finish can elevate the bathroom's entire look. Consider a vintage slip joint quarter-turn straight stop valve in a corrosion-resistant finish for long-lasting durability.

P-Traps

Found under sinks, showers, and tubs, P-traps hold just enough water to create an airtight seal between the home and sewer gasses. Our P-traps are ideal for homes with exposed plumbing, as they come in a variety of premium finishes to match existing bathroom fixtures. Models such as this 18-gauge, brushed brass P-trap offer a standard 1-1/4-inch connection and include a matching flange and slip joint nuts.

Faucet Supply Lines

Exposed faucet supply lines add a finishing touch to the bathroom, installing easily into a 3/8-inch compression stop valve. A 30-inch line will reach most applications, and brass construction gives it added durability.

Bath Supply Lines

Likewise, exposed bath supply lines with a vintage look and durable finish that resists tarnishing and corrosion can add an elegant touch to the bathroom for years to come. Our bath supply lines are sold in pairs, with overall dimensions of 22-9/16 inch x 3-7/16 inch and 2-3/8 inch diameter flanges.

Toilet Supply Lines

Rigid toilet supply lines also add a finishing touch to the bathroom. We carry several styles, such as a Complement 20-inch x 3/8-inch diameter flat closet supply line in matte black that installs easily into a 3/8-inch compression stop valve. At 20 inches long, it will reach most applications and comes in a brass finish for added durability.

Shower Arms and Flanges

Match your sink and toilet hardware with your shower fixtures, thanks to touches such as shower arms and flanges. The Shower Scape 17-inch Sheppard's Hook Rain Drop Shower Arm with Flange in polished chrome helps create the ultimate rain shower experience without the need to drill into the ceiling. The shower arm's curved shape mimics that rainfall feeling by dropping water directly overhead. It also comes in a variety of other finishes, including brushed nickel, polished brass, antique brass, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze.

Toilet Trim Kits

Cold water lines and valve handles are visible beside and behind the commode, but they're often left plain as well. Decorative plumbing supply toilet trim kits can elevate the look of the entire room.

A Trimscape three-piece toilet supply kit provides all the necessary parts for the bathroom toilet's water flow process. It includes a traditional flange, a 20-inch flat head supply line, and a single cross ½-14 NPT inlet x 3/8-inch O.D comp outlet angle stop valve. Choose from finishes including polished brass, brushed brass, polished nickel, brushed nickel, antique brass, polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black.

Sink Trim Kits

To coordinate all the necessary parts of a wastewater draining system, look for a traditional plumbing sink trim kit, including a P-trap and overflow drain, single-handle compression angle stops, ½-inch IPS bell flanges, 30-inch bullnose lavatory supply lines, and a mounting ring for those installing vessel sinks. Available in high-quality material and tarnish-resistant finishes for long-lasting performance to match a variety of home decor.

Tub Drains

Matching the tub drain to the rest of the bathroom hardware can tie together the whole bathroom's look. A Trimscape Lift and Turn Tub Drain Conversion Kit easily replaces a worn or unsightly bathtub drain, including all the necessary parts, along with easy-to-follow instructions.

If you're unsure about which finish to choose for your bath, consult our Kingston Brass Inc. specialists. Since 1998, we've worked diligently to create quality kitchen and bath products for the plumbing industry that people would be proud to have in their homes. We have a wide selection of traditional and contemporary products, including faucets, tubs, sinks, and showers.

Visit a Kingston Brass authorized dealer near you to see our array of products and finishes in person, or call us at (877) 252-7277. We're glad to help.