Radiators have come full circle when it comes to their prominence in our homes. When invented in the 19th-century, to have plumbed central heating was something to shout about. As such, ornate, cast iron radiators were placed front and centre in the home as a symbol of wealth and modernity. Fast forward to the 21st-century and radiators started to get a bad design rep, being hidden behind purpose-built covers, or removed all together in place of de rigueur underfloor heating.

In 2021 the statement radiator is back in full force, turning the practical piece of plumbing into a design feature once more. For this week’s edit, we’ve scoured the internet for the best designer radiators – from contemporary installations to reimagined classics – to fit every style of home.

Lazzarini Way


Best Heating
Radiators Best Heating Lazzarini Way Vulcan

The curved lines and porthole detail of the Lazzarini Way make it a unique, contemporary option that will definitely be a conversation starter amongst house guests. The circular cut-out can be filled with a mirror – or even a picture – to make a real statement. Now £439.98. Buy it here.

Milano Capri


Best Heating
Radiabors Best Heating Milano Capri

The broad, flat panel design of the Milano Capri immediately gives it a modern feel, while the powder coated crisp white finish gives a contemporary feel. £354.95. Buy it here.

Arroll Montmartre


B&Q
Arroll Montmartre 3 Column Radiator, Pewter (W)834mm (H)470mm

If you’re looking for all the ornate design of a traditional cast-iron rad but with modern efficiency, the UK-made Arroll Montmartre comes in a range of colours, all with Rococo scroll detailing on each column. With effective heat retention, they are perfect for period rooms with high ceilings – delivering style and substance. £570. Buy it here.

Terma Hex


Wayfair
Hex

A real statement buy, this is more wall sculpture than plumbing accessory. The overlay matrix design of the Terma Hex gives texture and depth to a wall. We think it’s perfect for a bathroom. Available in a metallic copper or monochrome black finish. £478. Buy it here.

Soap Ellipse Electric Mirrored Glass Radiator


Wickes
Radiators Wickes Wall Mounted

It’s a radiator, but not as you know it. Frameless, with a glass finish, this infrared radiator produces healthier, energy-efficient heat as it keeps dust and bacteria to a minimum. Sensor-controlled to deliver comfortable, continuous heat, the super slimline design and touch-screen controls make it the perfect option for a bathroom or a sleek, minimal home. £555.30. Buy it here.

Aeon Ottoman


Designer Radiators Direct
Aeon Ottoman

Another statement piece for a modern home, the Aeon Ottoman is, essentially, a radiator seat. Perfect for bedrooms, install one of these and you can get dressed in the morning while warming your toes. The low-level design is perfect in-front of floor-to-ceiling windows as it won’t obscure the view, while the architectural feel makes it a style statement you will want centre stage in any room design. From £2,152. Buy it here.

Elegant Vertical Mirror Radiator


Amazon
ELEGANT 1800 X 499 Mm Vertical Mirror Radiator Designer Oval Column Panel Central Heating Radiators.

The perfect option for a narrow hallway or bijou bathroom, this radiator with inbuilt full-length mirror is space-saving as well as stylish. £187. Buy it here.

Corus Corner


Posh Rads
Corus Corner Single Vertical Designer Radiator

In smart, matt anthracite grey, this clever curve-fronted, corner design from Corus is a great option for awkward rooms, or where wall-space is limited. Fitting snugly into the right-angle, its curves also make an angular room feel cosier and warmer too. From £390. Buy it here.

Traditional Cast Iron


The Radiator Company
Traditional Cast Iron

The perfect thing for a period property that calls for a classic-look radiator that won’t dominate an elegant interior with a heavy metal finish. This range of cast-iron beauties from The Radiator Company can be supplied in a range of official Farrow & Ball colours to blend effortlessly with their surroundings. Prices from £71.44 Buy them here.

By Lydia Mansi
Updated September 2023