Maybe post a pic of what you are describing since I might have a very different idea of what exposed pipes mean. Do you mean one of these ot the wall mounted type IMO it really depends a lot on your style.

as the above poster said it's a style choice but to me it's also more to clean.

Pros of getting exposed shower are it's easier and cheaper to install and all components are exposed above the wall and hence is easier to repair. However as what they have mentioned it is harder to clean as it is more prone to external wear and stains.

Thanks very much for all the input. I am looking at a brass version and a brushed gold version.  Sounds like brass might be time consuming to keep clean. I love the look but need to think it through esp. Since we have a water softner.  Oh is there any issue with the pipes getting hot and unable to touch them?

They are designed to be well insulated so that heat stays in. @Dawn Rossi

Based upon your photos, the hot water supply will be in the wall and the only exposed pipe will be running from the mixing valve to the shower head. That pipe won't be any hotter than the water coming out of the shower head.

If the water coming out of the shower head isn't too hot for your skin, the shower head pipe shouldn't be either.