Column radiators are not just for period properties anymore. No matter if you’re channelling townhouse elegance or bringing a hint of heritage charm to a new build, these timeless designs combine a powerful heating performance with effortless style.
In this guide, we’ve picked out 10 of the best column radiators from our stunning Milano collection – including horizontal, vertical, cast iron and electric options – to suit every space, from the cosy terrace to the grand open-plan lounge.
Why choose a column radiator?
Traditional column radiators are as much about character as comfort. Their distinctive vertical tubes provide an excellent level of heat distribution, while also adding a sense of architectural texture to your space.
They’re especially popular for:
- Traditional homes – bringing vintage charm with modern efficiency.
- Open-plan spaces – where higher BTU output and multi-column options shine.
- Modern interiors – modern column radiators with sleek anthracite, white, and black finishes.
In comparison with the likes of panel radiators, column designs often deliver higher heat outputs and are well suited to both modern and period aesthetics alike.
Our best column radiators at a glance
Product | Orientation | BTU Range | Columns | Style | Best For |
Milano Windsor – White 3-Column | Horizontal | 3,000-8,000+ | 3 | Traditional | Large living rooms |
Milano Windsor – Anthracite Vertical | Vertical | 4,000-9,000+ | 3 | Modern | Hallways / dining rooms |
Milano Windsor – Black 2-Column | Horizontal | 2,500-6,500 | 2 | Transitional | Bedrooms |
Milano Capri – Anthracite 3-Column | Vertical | 3,800-8,200 | 3 | Modern | Open-plan spaces |
Milano Windsor – Raw Metal Cast Iron | Horizontal | 5,000-10,000 | 4 | Industrial | Period homes |
Milano Windsor – Traditional Electric | Vertical | 3,200-6,000 | 3 | Electric | Homes without central heating |
Milano Windsor – White Electric 2-Column | Horizontal | 2,800-5,500 | 2 | Electric | Apartments |
Milano Windsor – Tall White 4-Column | Vertical | 5,500-11,000 | 4 | Heritage | High-ceilinged homes |
Milano Windsor – Anthracite Triple Column | Horizontal | 6,000-12,000 | 3 | Modern Luxe | Large rooms |
Milano Windsor – Slimline 2-Column | Horizontal | 2,000-4,000 | 2 | Compact | Small homes |
(All BTU outputs approximate. Check your exact heating needs with our BTU Calculator).
The top 10 column radiators
1. Milano Windsor White 3-Column Radiator - Best for large living rooms
A true design classic, the Milano Windsor 3-column radiator, finished in white, can deliver elegance and warmth to traditional and transitional spaces alike.
- BTU: 3,000-8,000+
- Orientation: Horizontal
- Finish: Gloss white
- Best for: Large living rooms, feature walls, or beneath windows
Pair it with matching Windsor radiator valves and pipe covers to create a cohesive finish.
2. Milano Windsor anthracite vertical radiator - Best for narrow hallways
For areas with limited wall space that still require serious heat, go tall. The Milano Windsor anthracite vertical column radiator will make a striking style statement in any compact room while freeing up valuable floor space.
- BTU: 4,000-9,000+
- Orientation: Vertical
- Finish: Anthracite grey powder coat
- Best for: Hallways, kitchens, or dining rooms
Vertical column radiators are an ideal option for compact rooms that need a modern design edge.
3. Milano Windsor white electric 2-column radiator - Best for flats or apartments
A sleek, space-saving electric radiator that blends efficiency with traditional styling. The Milano Windsor white electric double column radiator is especially ideal for small spaces or secondary heating zones.
- BTU equivalent: 2,800-5,500
- Finish: Gloss white
- Mounting: Wall-mounted
- Best for: Flats and compact living areas
Electric radiators are a brilliant choice for homeowners looking to use effective and efficient zonal heating without switching on the full system.
4. Milano Windsor white 3-column vertical radiator - Best for open-plan living
Combining traditional charm with a bold modern edge, the Milano Windsor vertical triple column white cast iron style radiator is a perfect choice for large, open spaces that need both heat and visual impact. Its tall, triple-column design provides an excellent heat output while maximising wall space ideal for open-plan kitchens, lounges, and dining areas.
- BTU: 3,800-8,500
- Orientation: Vertical
- Columns: 3
- Finish: Contemporary anthracite grey
- Best for: Open-plan living areas or modern feature walls
“Vertical Windsor radiators are great for maximising heat in big, open spaces without sacrificing valuable wall area,” says Paul Cavanagh, product procurement specialist at BestHeating.
5. Milano Windsor raw metal traditional triple column radiator - Best for period homes
Bring timeless Victorian character to your home with the Milano Windsor triple column radiator in a gorgeous raw metal finish. Each piece is hand-finished for an authentic industrial feel.
- BTU: 5,000-10,000
- Material: Cast iron
- Finish: Raw metal (lacquered)
- Best for: Period or vintage-inspired homes
6. Milano Windsor traditional electric column radiator - Best electric option for classic interiors
No pipework? No problem. This electric Windsor radiator, boasting a clean white finish, offers authentic column styling with plug-and-play installation. Plus, the low-level design makes it an ideal option for positioning beneath a window, for instance.
- BTU equivalent: 3,200-6,000
- Orientation: Horizontal
- Control: Thermostatic digital control
- Best for: Homes without central heating or extensions
7. Milano Windsor black 2-column radiator - Best for bedrooms
Stylish and understated, the Milano Windsor 2-column radiator, finished in brooding midnight black, pairs modern colour trends with heritage-inspired lines.
- BTU: 2,500-6,500
- Orientation: Horizontal
- Best for: Bedrooms and snug areas
- Why you’ll love it: Compact footprint with powerful heat output
8. Milano Windsor tall white 4-column radiator - Best for high ceilings
Designed to impress, this tall Windsor white 4-column radiator is a great pick for Victorian or Edwardian homes with lofty proportions.
- BTU: 5,500-11,000
- Orientation: Vertical
- Finish: White powder coat
- Best for: Entrance halls, stairwells, or feature walls
9. Milano Windsor anthracite triple column radiator - Best for modern luxe interiors
Performance meets polish with the Windsor anthracite triple-column radiator, which delivers a serious heat output and contemporary presence.
- BTU: 6,000-12,000
- Orientation: Horizontal
- Best for: Large living rooms or open-plan spaces
- Style: Modern industrial luxe
10. Milano Windsor vertical traditional double column radiator - Best space-saving option for classic interiors
For timeless elegance in tighter spaces, the Milano Windsor vertical double column radiator exudes all the traditional appeal of a classic column design in a sleek, upright format. Its tall frame and slim two-column build make it perfect for hallways, dining rooms, or anywhere wall space is limited. Available in a choice of classic finishes – including white, anthracite, black, and lesser seen hues like green and blue as well, it’s a versatile option that blends heritage styling with modern practicality.
- BTU: 2,000-6,000 (depending on size)
- Orientation: Vertical
- Columns: 2
- Finish options: Multiple colours available
- Best for: Small to medium rooms with limited horizontal wall space
How to choose the right column radiator
When picking your perfect column radiator, consider:
1. Room size & BTU requirement
Use our BTU Calculator to work out the correct output requirements for your space.
2. Orientation & layout
- Vertical radiators: ideal for narrow walls and smaller rooms.
- Horizontal radiators: perfect for positioning under windows or along feature walls.
3. Style & finish
There isn’t a hard and fast rule, and personal preference should dictate; but white suits traditional homes, anthracite or black add a modern twist, and raw metal works especially well in industrial interiors.
4. Heating type
Choose between central heating, dual fuel, or electric column radiators for flexibility and efficiency.
Shop column radiators at BestHeating
Frequently Asked Questions
Do column radiators heat as well as panel radiators?
Yes. In many cases, column radiators provide a higher level of radiant heat due to their increased surface area, making them ideal for larger or draughtier spaces.
Are column radiators energy efficient?
Modern column radiator designs retain heat very efficiently and work brilliantly alongside smart thermostats.
Can I get column radiators in electric versions?
Absolutely. Electric Windsor radiators provide the same timeless look with convenient plug-in installation and performance, with no plumbing required.
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.
