A look at the biggest radiator trends for the year, and the interiors they are best suited to.
Find the perfect blend of comfort and style with designer radiators
Long in the past are the days when radiators were purely practical – unappealing heaps of white metal shoved away under a window, silently doing their job and trying their utmost not to be noticed. Nowadays, modern radiator styles are embraced wholeheartedly.
And whilst the designer radiator revolution began in earnest a while ago, 2025 can be considered the year of the true coming out party of the humble radiator. It’s bolder, braver, and more stylish than ever. From anthracite finishes to sculptural centrepieces, radiators are now flexing their design muscles and becoming genuine statement pieces in the home.
So, no matter if you’re remodelling an entire room or just looking to give your heating a facelift, here are the nine hottest radiator styles of the year – the ones turning heads and heating homes in equal measure.
1. Anthracite radiators - Still reigning supreme
Anthracite radiators have been dominating design trends and radiator styles for a while now, and 2025 is no different. This deep, smoky grey tone is practically the little black dress of the heating world – timeless, sophisticated, and impossible to get wrong.
Anthracite finishes sit beautifully within modern and industrial settings alike. They deliver a slightly softer look than full matte black but still add a punch of contrast against light walls or minimalist decor. Plus, they don’t show every speck of dust like a pure white radiator – so that’s a win for your cleaning schedule.
Why it’s hot in 2025: Earthy tones and natural materials are huge this year, and anthracite plays right into that grounded, tonal aesthetic.
2. Vertical radiators - Tall, dark and handsome
A tall radiator isn’t just a heating solution – it’s an interior design power move. Vertical radiators are growing in popularity faster than your energy bills in winter. They’re ideal for smaller rooms with limited horizontal wall space but high ceilings, such as converted lofts or open-plan kitchens.
Available in slimline, flat-panel, or chunky column styles, vertical radiators add a sense of height and drama to a room. They’re also a dream pick for an interior designer, balancing proportions and creating a sleek, architectural look with radiator style. Our article, Vertical or horizontal radiators: Which is right for you? has more detail on the best scenarios to use vertical radiators in.
Pro tip: Match a vertical radiator with tall mirrors or windows for a clean, cohesive visual appearance.
Top rooms to use them: Hallways, kitchens, open-plan lounges, and anywhere with tall unobstructed wall space.
3. Sculptural and statement designs - Heating artwork
If you’ve ever stared at a blank wall and thought, “This needs something… warmer,” sculptural radiators might be the answer. These designs blur the line between utility and artwork, with bold geometric patterns, looping bars, and even spirals that wouldn’t look out of place in a modern gallery.
From asymmetric grids to organically inspired swirls, statement radiators are perfect for homeowners who don’t just want heating – they want conversation starters as well.
Why you’ll love it: It’s heating that reflects your personality. Why settle for average when you can have heating with an undeniable wow factor?
Hot trend: Wave-shaped models in brushed brass and generally unorthodox, inventive heating styles.
4. Industrial chic - Raw and real
The industrial trend is sticking around, and so are radiator styles that lean into raw materials and rugged good looks. Think exposed weld marks, brushed metal finishes, or radiators that look like they’ve been salvaged from a rickety old train station (in the nicest way possible).
Copper, bronze, and gunmetal radiators are huge for those aiming for that pared-back, warehouse vibe. Bonus points if you pair one with an open-brick wall, exposed bulb lighting, and maybe to accentuate a battered old leather armchair.
Perfect pairing: Wooden floors, concrete surfaces, and neutral walls.
Popular picks: Aged metal column radiators or flat panels in textured metallic finishes.
5. Pastel and colour-pop radiators - Turning up the joy
Who says radiators have to be subtle? Not 2025. And definitely not us at BestHeating.
Colour is coming back in a big way, with soft pastels and bold brights alike breathing new life into heating design. Think powder pink in a retro bathroom, sage green in a country kitchen, or mustard yellow making a hallway feel like sunshine even in deepest, darkest and coldest January.
Coloured radiators give you the chance to co-ordinate with existing palettes – or completely contrast and clash for extra impact.
Trend alert: Two-tone radiators and colour-dipped styles are gaining traction.
Great for: Kids’ rooms, home offices, eclectic interiors, or anywhere you want to inject a bit more personality and flair.
6. Mirrored radiators - Heat and reflect
Space-saving and style-savvy, mirrored radiators are ideal for small or darker rooms. They bounce light around the space, making it feel bigger and brighter, all while keeping it toasty. It’s like having a magic trick nailed to your wall – practical and just a little bit show-offy.
Bonus benefit: Great for last-minute outfit checks as you dash out the door.
Where to install: Bathrooms, dressing rooms, narrow hallways.
7. Vintage column radiators - Old school cool
Nostalgia’s in, and that is certainly exemplified in the revival of the classic column radiator. With their iconic silhouette and chunky form, these beauties channel Victorian vibes but pack modern-day efficiency under the bonnet.
You can go raw metal for a rustic edge, or painted finishes (from off-white to forest green) to coordinate with contemporary décor. They suit both period homes and contemporary interiors with more than a hint of character.
Style tip: Match your radiator valves to the finish for a proper heritage look.
Best match: Bay windows, fireplace walls, and feature alcoves.
8. Flat panel radiators - Sleek, subtle and sorted
Minimalism never really goes out of fashion, and flat panel radiators are proof of this notion. With clean lines, flush finishes and unfussy silhouettes, they’re the heating equivalent of a well-cut blazer: smart, tidy, and endlessly versatile.
They’re ideal if you want your radiator styles to blend seamlessly into your interior scheme, especially in modern, clutter-free and clean homes.
In 2025: Look out for matte finishes, soft touch textures and magnetic accessories that let you personalise the look.
Best rooms: Living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms with a modern vibe.
9. Dual-purpose radiators - Clever, compact and comfortable
If your house is on the cosy side – or you just love a good multi-tasker – dual-purpose radiators are heating’s equivalent of the Swiss army knife. Think heated towel rails with integrated storage, or bench-style radiators that warm your bum and your boots at the same time.
These clever designs are ideal options for bathrooms, cloakrooms, or boot rooms where space is limited but warmth remains essential. After all, who doesn’t want a radiator that works harder?
Emerging trend: Radiators with built-in shelves for plants, books or skincare – stylish and practical.
Spotlight radiators from BestHeating
2025 is the year to stop thinking of your radiators as background extras. Whether you’re into sleek and subtle or bold and sculptural, there’s never been a better time to upgrade your heating, and make it look just as good as it feels.
Need help choosing the right radiator styles? Explore our radiator buying guide and our guide on how to choose the perfect radiator for your interior style to help you find the correct fit for your specific space. Be sure to show off your heating upgrades to us through Instagram, Facebook or X.
John is a Research Specialist for the Best Heating Advice Centre, where for over nine years he has dedicated himself to demystifying home heating for our customers. He specialises in creating clear, data-driven guides and how-to articles by collaborating directly with our team of certified heating experts and product engineers.
His work, built on a foundation of journalistic research, has helped millions of readers make confident and informed decisions about their home heating. When he’s not breaking down the heat output differentials from radiators to heated towel rails, John fancies himself as a fine football and music connoisseur.
