So called “Designer radiators” allow you to customise your living spaces with heaters that make "style statements". Put simply, their unusual designs make them an asset rather than a detriment, and this means that they add something to a typical room rather than take something away.
Modern radiators can be powered from a hot water based central heating system, or they can use electricity and work independently. The latter using oil or heating elements to distribute the heat. You can even get some that rely on radiation rather than the traditional convection.
When it comes to designs there is a lot to go at with choices covering everything from Georgian and Victorian styling to ultra modern and minimalist looks that can be used to emphasize the presence of the heating unit.
For many people making a feature of, or at least failing to hide, a prominent radiator might seem unusual. For many years people have used guards and covers to disguise these once unsightly cast iron panels, but now they can be shown off in their full glory.
And it is not only the shapes and designs that have changed. Many radiators come in different colours and finishes. This means that stainless steel or matt black can be selected and some designs include reds, blues, greens and more.
Materials are another area of a radiator-construction that has evolved. Metals are no longer the only material of choice. Hi-tec constructions see polymers and glass used and because many cutting-edge models are electric (and not centrally heated) they can be moved around and simply connect to the mains supply by plug. This means that radiators have become mobile and are no longer constrained to walls or locations under windows.
As for the future, many of the more desirable radiators need to come down in price before they will get a foothold in the mainstream housing market. The designs are interesting and sometimes stunning, but many have a price tag to match and this means that they are limited to applications in show homes or business conference rooms where impressions count. That said, some large DIY and furniture stores are starting to sell affordable yet stylish radiators that may soon be adorning more and more peoples homes.
