Style Guide for Designer Radiators
Whether it's stunning, contemporary towel rails or ultra-modern panels to fit any room in the house, consumers now have an increasing choice when it comes to customising the look and feel of their radiators. With increasingly versatile accommodations to fit out, radiator models have become far more varied, from tall, slimfit designs to flat panel or traditional horizontal variants. From contemporary chrome to chic anthracite, designer versions have become more than just a functional element in the room - they are now talking points and stylish features in their own right.
In addition to modern twists on the traditional column or panel radiators, several new styles have become very much in vogue. Flat panel, vertical designs are both practical and refined, while gunmetal and anthracite offer radical alternative materials for your heating solution. Some models even feature mirrored panels incorporated into the design, which is not only stylish but space-saving, especially for those with smaller rooms to furnish.
An additional feature of many such radiators is a wider range of colours; from peaceful, tranquil blues to warm oranges and masculine reds, coloured ones can help enhance the mood of a room or lend it a completely new feel. Innovation and luxury does not necessarily mean premium prices either; many designer radiators are competitively-priced and comparable to standard models. The added touch of refinement, however, makes this new, practical approach to interior design both affordable and desirable.
We can now see that understanding which make, model and design to choose from can be quite a lengthy process. However, let us remember that any radiator is a very real investment. It can provide warmth for decades to come while its visual appeal can have an equally stunning impact within the home.
Vertical & Horizontal Orientation
Both these types can be installed as electric or central heating versions. The Central heating variety is your classic method of heating and electric uses wires as heating elements. Electric has the advantage of not needing a boiler. Most of the home radiators have remote controlled programs to set temperature and operating times.
Vertical radiators
These types have an upright profile and emit their heat right into the central room space. These offer visual interests as they stand tall and be easily seen, and therefore have greater potential for external profile designing compared to floor models.
Although standing tall against the wall, however, these lie flat and do not require too much space to emit efficient heat. Such models are often seen in kitchens which have severe space restrictions or in style where vertical measurements are being used by the designer. Narrow and tall, these radiators showcase columns, tubes and flat panels that make up their striking vertical designs. These upright beauties are available in different sizes such as 1000mm, 1500mm, 1800mm and 2000mm.
Horizontal radiators
These see a horizontal arrangement of columns, tubes and flat panels that make up the body. Traditional models come in this orientation. Horizontal models are placed in a linear manner, and therefore, heat is emitted more evening and spread all along the breadth. These are ideally placed directly below a window to counter the localized cooler temperature as well as save space. Available in a range of colours, finishes and sizes, horizontal varieties are designed to fit in wider wall spaces such as below a large picture. Get the designer feel with our unique range of unique, stylish horizontal radiators.
Heating Requirements
The first thing to take into consideration is the size of the environment that the designer radiator is intended to heat. Many will often make the mistake of only taking looks into account while sacrificing the ability to maintain a comfortable temperature. All are given a rating that is provided in BTUs (British Thermal Units). Ask a professional to determine the BTU requirements for a specific room, or you can use a BTU Calculator to determine the heat required for a room.
Accessories - Thermostatic Valves
On the more technical side, you might desire a unit that is equipped with what is known as a thermostatic valve. You can think of this as a thermostat for each space within your home. Also known as a TRV, this mechanism will allow you to set the exact temperature of each radiator and adjust it when desired. When the air temperature rises too high, the water flow to the appliance will be reduced. If you have a large home with unique heating requirements, these valves are an excellent addition. They are amenably priced, but it is always important to factor in the cost of installation of multiple units. Keep in mind that with the use of thermostatic valves, you may very well be able to save hundreds of pounds in heating each year. It is always wise to enquire whether or not a certain radiator is already equipped with this function. Radiators can be built from a number of materials, some of which we have discussed in detail:
Know Which Materials to Select
Stainless Steel: In comparison to chrome, this material is more expensive. However, the extra cost gives you more quality and durability, which helps in protecting against corrosion, an important property in radiators that come up against corrosive elements in a heating system. The appearance of stainless steel is ideal for the modern space as it can give a sleek look. This is especially so in bathrooms, where reflective, neutral materials are a popular choice.
Chrome:Made from chrome, these are a cheaper alternative to stainless steel without necessarily cutting back on quality or choice of design. Chrome offers a smooth lustre and corrosion-resistant properties making it ideal as an external coating. Chrome ones are normally made of steel alloy with a layer of chrome on the surface. Chrome-plated versions are more easily prone to chips and scratches compared to stainless steel.
Aluminium: Aluminium is a lightweight, durable material that transfers heat the quickest of all the materials used in radiators. This has the effect of improved efficiency in heating up a room, and therefore less energy wastage. Besides, Aluminum is a non-corrosive material, so you will find the quality is retained for year to come. Aluminium can be easily moulded into different shapes to create different kinds of styles.
Design Examples
Now that we have outlined some basic variables to consider let us take a look at three different types which can add style to any home.
The First Model / MHS TrattoThis MHS Tratto offers a truly unique appeal. As it is embedded with rear-facing lighting, it hardly appears to be a radiator at all. Such a unit is ideal for those who may have been searching for a post-modern appeal. A handy horizontal upper portion increases its functionality; small items can be tucked away for later use. Thanks to a rather solid appearance, this heating machine can be used within any room of the home.
This MHS Canyon boasts what can only be called a minimalistic appeal. A sleek silver hue will complement the existing colour scheme of nearly any room. As with the previous unit, this radiator is entirely mounted on the wall thanks to its lightweight construction. Such a design can be a wonderful addition to bathrooms and other locations where floor space is at a premium. An interesting feature to be seen here is that as opposed to a tubular design, the outer surface is comprised of a continuous sheet of folded metal. You may recall that this will help aid in efficient thermal distribution due to its increased surface area. Such a model will also be quite easy to clean.
Those who are looking for a true departure from the norm will not be disappointed with this last variant. Boasting a rather artistic appeal, this radiator employs two sets of u-shaped elements; each facing away from the other upon a double vertical mount. As with many other designer models, the aim here is to have the unit look less like a radiator and more like standalone element. Its angular shape can be used to match the existing decor of a room while the piece is just as appropriate when contrasting with a more traditional environment.
Conclusion
Designer radiators not only offer a comprehensive selection of style, colour and design; users also have the option of controlling the warmth and well-being of family and guests. Electrically operated models can be moved around more easily, and a thermostatic element allows complete control. Radiators are today far less likely to be seen merely as items necessary to provide warmth and comfort. They are now considered as important to style expression as any other work of art. Above we have showcased a complete bold collection, which give extreme comfort and look fabulous in any home.
It is rare to have immense strength, as well as exquisite beauty. Designer radiators do have a combination of strength and beauty and along with it offers functional heat. We understand the importance of heating, especially in winter seasons, which is why we showcase a series of products that come equipped with the latest technologies and advanced design system. Products showcased at our on-line store features an eye catching design and are available in high gloss and matte finish, and they also varies in heat output. These are no longer objects that add to a home’s comfort, but detract from the decor. The wide range of choices available in a variety of colours and styles can put the finishing touch to an individual’s unique display of decorative flair. Even when they are not providing warmth, these heating units can contribute to the welcoming atmosphere of any room in a home.
Having guests remark on the welcoming warmth of a home need no longer apply only to its temperature or furnishings. The magnificent range that is currently available at our online store can actually cause them to become conversation pieces and inspire many complimentary remarks regarding the unique touch of style displayed together with superb functionality. Choices between electrically heated or those that rely on a hot water supply can provide an even greater sense of personal style control.
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