Radiator Covers Like You've Never Seen

Radiators, covered or not, are notorious for being space-hogging interior eyesores. Thankfully, inventive designers and savvy homeowners are becoming increasingly adept at transforming these bulky yet necessary components into stylish pieces that blend seamlessly into the decor. Below are 10 fab ideas to inspire your next radiator-covering project.

1. Contemporary and functional. Traditional radiator covers with intricate metal grates can be quite beautiful, but they can feel out of place when your style leans more contemporary.

A custom cover, like the one shown here, can be designed to fit your space perfectly, disguising the radiator as a fully functional console or sofa table. The top shouldn’t get too warm, so you can feel free to place lamps, stacks of books and other decor right on top.


2. Custom shelving and cabinetry. Want to get more from your radiator cover? Have one made that extends across an entire wall, incorporating the radiator into a design that includes storage and display areas as well.


3. Architectural beauty. Another wonderful example of a built-in radiator cover that includes shelving, this one blends seamlessly with the other architectural features of the space. The clean lines and smooth surface provide the perfect spot for displaying art and treasures.


4. Sleek cabinet-style cover. Even if your radiator cover does not incorporate storage, consider making it look as if it does, as in the case of this sleek piece from architectural firm Schappacher White. You can use the top just as you would a console table, which helps it look like just another piece of furniture.


5. Unify your space with covers in the same style. Create a seamless, cohesive look by using one type of radiator cover throughout.

Here you can see another room in the same home as the previous photo, where the sleek, modern radiator covers are used throughout the space to great effect.


6. Built-in window shelf. In this living space, a decorative grate and built-in shelf fill what would otherwise have been an awkward and unusable window nook where the radiator sits.

Completely filling small nooks with built-ins is a smart design move, because it visually expands the space — where your eye would stop at a small, dark area, it now travels along a smooth expanse of wall. The shelf also allows room for a sculpture or other decorative element.


7. Simple shelf cover. Looking for a simple DIY solution? Install a wall shelf over your radiator. Either a simple floating shelf or one with brackets, as shown here, can work nicely.


8. Mini marble slab. Luxurious yet utterly simple, a small slab of marble atop this radiator doubles as a shelf to store hand towels and bath products. Look for small scrap pieces of marble, stone or tile on Craigslist, or check a local salvage yard.


9. Countertop desk over radiator. Create a simple workaround for a kitchen or home office radiator by installing low counters over it. If you plan to use the portion of the desk directly over the radiator, be sure to choose a counter deep enough to allow room for your legs.


10. Console over radiator. Want a quick solution that requires zero work or commitment? Pick out a console table long and wide enough to cover your radiator, and scoot it right on top. Paint your radiator to match the wall and place a few baskets or a boot tray in front of it, and you will hardly notice it anymore.

Tell us: Would you try any of these ideas at home? Which is your favorite?

URL: Radiator Covers Like You've Never Seen http://www.decor-ideas.org/cases-view-id-22090.html