Question: I want the smart, modern feel of exposed stainless steel water pipes in my master bathroom. Where can I find such bath fittings, and how do I make the look work?

Answer: When you decide on a minimalist or industrial style vanity area with a shelf countertop, sleek steel plumbing that is totally exposed under the counter and along the wall is a must throughout. Do not compromise the look with cheap-looking PVC fittings and pipes.

In a modern bathroom by Three-D Conceptwerke, the simple vanity comprises of two shelves in wood and man-made surfacing. The exposed steel plumbing is echoed in the vertical steel support riveted to the floor. Steel or chromed metal pipes, S-traps and other plumbing fittings are available at bath specialists such as Hemsley. Try to buy all your fittings and connections - your basin mixer, ceramic basin, pop-up waste, piping and so on - from one specialist and at one go, so you'll be sure that everything is compatible. The last thing you want is a tap and a wash basin that don't work well together in terms of height or water spout projection.