Decorative radiators and towel rails

In recent years, radiators have transformed from purely practical pieces into multifunctional design statements. It’s clear to see that people want so much more from their heating these days. And this is probably why the decorative radiator has become so popular. This heating solution can create a focal point in your home, adding instant depth and interest to an interior design scheme. And there’s an almost endless choice of customisations available. Think different colours, finishes, materials and styles. This way, you could make your decorative radiators and towel rails take centre stage in every room in your home. We asked our director Stewart Double for his take on the more decorative styles:

Be creative with colour

Traditionally, the standard radiator tends to be white, which is still a popular option. However, these days, there’s a huge variety of colours and finishes to choose from. So, you can add your own personal touch with a colour and/or finish to create a more decorative radiator. At DQ Heating, many of our radiators and towel rails are available in more than 300 RAL colours. However, you can even choose a variety of finishes. So, you can easily find a tone and style, which will complement the rest of your interior design. If you’re looking for decorative radiators which make a bold statement, I’d consider a contrasting colour with your walls. This way, it can instantly create a focal point in the room. If not, pick a colour which will blend with the paint on your walls for a more subtle look.

This sophisticated finish on our Denali decorative radiator in copper lacquer will ensure an iconic statement within your home. It’s also available in an equally stylish black nickel lacquer

Styles and materials

It’s not just the colour choice which can make your radiator look more decorative. I think the style you choose can make all the difference. From traditional column decorative radiators and towel rails to state-of-the-art models, there really is something for everyone. Thankfully, material and customisation offerings have come a long way, too. From traditional cast iron to aluminium for a sleek, modern aesthetic, you’re bound to find a material to suit the look you require.

Multi-functional radiators

Some contemporary decorative radiators can serve more than one purpose. Today’s styles include a whole host of options, such as adding a rail for a towel, a shelf or even incorporating a mirror within a design, which can instantly add interest. Firstly, I think you should consider which room you plan to place your radiator. After all, this will help you decide whether additional accessories are necessary. A mirrored radiator, for example, could be practical in a bedroom scheme. On the other hand, an additional rail might be handy for tea-towels in a kitchen or on a towel rail in a bathroom.

The Cove vertical radiator in mild steel features a central mirror which adds instant versatility and looks stylish too. Choose from a white or anthracite textured finish

Classic designs and finishes

When thinking of decorative radiators, there are plenty of sleek, modern designs. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t make this a feature on a classic model. In fact, I think traditional-style cast-iron radiators can make a strong statement. This tends to be thanks to their intricate design and detailing. And, with an ultra-stylish finish, you can add a contemporary twist to your proposed room plan, too.

Consider our Loxley range, for example. Lacquered polished finishes allow the traditional Edwardian foliage detailing to stand out and they come in gold, nickel and brass. However, you can instantly add a more modern finish with the tone you choose, such as copper. Alternatively, choose one of our many RAL colours or you can even pick a Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, or Sanderson paint colour to match the rest of your room. The possibilities are almost endless! This means you can create a bespoke look in your own home, whatever your individual style.

Our beautiful cast iron Loxley radiator features elegant, scalloped decoration from the Edwardian period. The exquisite detailing produces a timeless design, which is renowned for featuring in stately homes and mansions

Decorative towel rails

For busy family bathrooms, I think a heated towel rail is a must. Firstly, they provide a practical space in which to hang towels. However, they also need to look good in a designer bathroom scheme. Thankfully, these days, you can be far more adventurous with your towel rail than ever before. Just as decorative radiators come in a whole host of styles, this is now the case with towel rails too. Curves are bang on trend, so you can choose state-of-the-art models, which will complement the contours of your bath and basin.

The Jango is another exciting and innovative model in the DQ range. The elegant curves in this modern towel rail in ultra-durable grade 304 stainless steel give it a unique style

In addition, if you want to turn your bathroom into a spa-like escape, wood finishes are making their way into this space, too. Our Koha towel rail pairs Iroko wood with stainless steel for a pleasing aesthetic. The wood instantly adds warmth to create a modern bathroom, which embraces natural elements.

Our modern Koha towel rail features Iroko wood with brushed stainless steel for a natural vibe in a modern bathroom setting

Want to take your home to the next level with this year’s bathroom trends? Check out our blog, which reveals what’s hot in terms of decor and you could find the right radiator and towel rail design for you.