Kartell K-VIT Kolt Thermostatic Bar Shower – Matt Black (SHO311KBL)

The Kartell K-VIT Kolt shower range matches the Kolt brassware — a squared-off body with softly rounded edges. This is the thermostatic bar shower in matt black: an exposed valve that fixes to the wall on standard 150mm centres.

Bar shower or concealed valve?

A bar shower mounts on the surface of the wall and connects to existing pipework, so it's far simpler to fit — usually a direct swap for an old bar valve with no tiling or wall-opening needed. It's the practical choice for a refit, and in black it makes a strong visual statement without any building work.

A concealed valve buries the mechanism for a cleaner look, but must be planned before boarding and tiling.

Will it work with my water pressure?

Kartell rate this for 0.1 to 5 bar, which covers just about every domestic system — gravity-fed with a loft tank at the low end, mains and combi at the high end.

Being straight about the low end: it will operate at 0.1 bar, but a bar shower at that pressure gives a gentle spray rather than a powerful shower. If you're on gravity-fed plumbing and want a proper shower, you need a pump.

Thermostatic, and why that matters

A thermostatic valve holds the temperature you set even if water is drawn elsewhere in the house, and shuts down if the cold supply fails — the safety feature that matters in a family bathroom.

It's a WRAS approved product, meaning it meets the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme standard for materials in contact with drinking water. Some installers and building control officers will ask.

Living with matt black

Matt black shows limescale and water spotting more than chrome, and a shower valve sits in the wettest place in the house. Wipe it dry after use to keep it sharp.

Never use abrasive cleaners or limescale remover. The finish is a coating rather than plating, and harsh chemicals will dull or strip it. Warm soapy water and a soft cloth only.

Fitting

Fits standard 150mm centres. Pair it with the Kolt slide rail kit for a complete shower.

Specification

• Code: SHO311KBL
• Matt black finish
• Brass construction
• Thermostatic bar valve, exposed
• 150mm centres
• Suitable for pressures between 0.1 and 5 bar
• WRAS approved
• Weight 1.8kg
• 5 year guarantee (1 year on moving parts)
• Barcode 5055681461331

Downloads

Download the technical data sheet