Small upgrades. Big difference

Five style hacks to upgrade your radiators’ aesthetics this summer

Radiators are in every room – but they’re so often overlooked. With just a few well-chosen accessories, they can help transform the look and feel of a space without the need for a full makeover.

Rob Nezard, Managing Director of UKRadiators.com, said: “People spend thousands refreshing their interiors, but often forget the radiator, even though it’s one of the most visible pieces in the room.

“Spending just a few pounds on the right accessories can give your radiator a design-led feel and bring a whole look together.”

Here, Rob shares five easy style hacks to give your radiators – and your room – a well-deserved refresh.

1. Upgrade your bleed valves

If you’re making small upgrades to your radiator, don’t stop at the obvious. Bleed valves are one of the smallest components – but they’re also among the most visible. Those standard chrome caps do the job, but they can stick out like a sore thumb in a carefully curated space. Swapping them for a decorative alternative instantly adds a cohesive finish, especially in open-plan rooms or spaces with minimal design clutter.

Rob said: “Switching out a standard bleed valve for a decorative version in black, brass or nickel gives your radiator a much more polished finish.”

2. Add matching wall stays

Wall stays are there to stabilise your radiator – but they can also stabilise your aesthetic.

These small brackets secure column-style radiators to the wall, stopping movement and adding strength. Most people never think about them when styling a space – but choosing wall stays that match your other fittings is an easy way to bring harmony to your radiator setup. Think of them as the equivalent of matching your curtain poles to your door handles.

Rob said: “Coordinating wall stays with your valves and pipe covers is a small change that makes the whole set-up feel styled, not just functional.”

3. Switch your valves

Valves are like the jewellery of your radiator – and just like accessories, they have the power to elevate the entire look. Many radiators are fitted with basic white or silver plastic valves as standard, which can look out of place in a considered interior scheme. Upgrading to a thermostatic design in a statement finish is a simple way to add impact whilst also improving energy efficiency. It’s a win for both style and substance.

Rob said: “Thermostatic valves in finishes like brushed brass, anthracite or chrome elevate even the simplest radiator – and give you more control over your heating too.”

4. Cover your pipes

Even the most beautiful radiator can be let down by untidy pipework. Bare copper or plastic pipes might be functional, but they often clash with modern interiors – especially in kitchens and living areas. Pipe sleeves or covers are a smart and inexpensive way to conceal them and make your radiator installation feel much more premium. It’s a simple touch that goes a long way in open-plan spaces or rooms where you’re aiming for clean lines.

Rob said: “Pipe sleeves are a simple, affordable fix – just match them to your valves for a clean, considered look.”

5. Add feet to column radiators

Column radiators already bring a classic or industrial charm to a room – and feet are the finishing touch that enhances their style. As well as helping to support the radiator’s weight, decorative feet give your installation a sense of permanence and purpose. They anchor the radiator within the room and create a much more tailored, architectural feel. It’s a detail that can make even a simple heating upgrade feel like a design statement.

Rob said: “Radiator feet help ground the radiator visually and add a bit of character. Go for raw metal or heritage styles, depending on your scheme.”

Rob added: “It doesn’t take much to make your radiator feel like part of the design. A few thoughtful upgrades can tie everything together and give your room a fresh, finished feel – for a fraction of the cost of new furniture.”

UKRadiators.com’s full range of radiator accessories is available now, with prices starting from just £8.40.