I'm curious about this as well, we have similar eyesore units that I can't stand.

Since the vents are on the top of the unit, you want to make sure the airflow is correct. See this photo for an example of a radiator cover with the top vented:

http://www.fichman.com/radiatorcover446.html?3

You should make the top hinged so you can access the controls for the air unit. If you want added storage, you can have the cover extend through to the side walls and create "cubby" spaces on either side of the unit.

Sorry - you might have to scroll through that link about 10 or so pictures to see the one with top vents...

I ordered one from here a few years ago. Was very happy with it. http://www.stanleyradiatorenclosures.com/461378.html

I don't think I would cover the radiator as it will reduce its efficiency. The easiest solution might be to build some simple, white bookshelves on either side to custom fit the space so the bookshelf-radiator-bookshelf feels like one piece across the wall.

fireplace screen?

Adding a radiator cover usually does not reduce its efficiency. It mostly just redirects the flow of heat further into the room. You can help direct heat away from the wall by adding a sheet of metal between the radiator and the wall.

I have two of these in my small condo. My solution: center a sofa on one and the bed on the other. It's a little unconventional and it may not be the most space efficient, but it hides the ugly without covering the vents.

I built one for ourselves, making it look like it's always been there (and keeping it visually less massive) by lowering the sides into seating (with cubbies underneath removable seats.

Our process:
http://bradcornelius.com/wordpress/?p=473

and final results:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bredlo/2315357770/

Thanks for all of the great suggestions. Maggie's Stanley site has the best option for this type of unit. They actually never get hot, just blow hot/cold air. I'm thinking to vent it in the front so the kittens have a nice window seat.

Do you live in Richmond? The photo looks like it could have been taken from my own condo in a "post-war high rise". We even have the same crappy flooring.

You could try painting it the same colors are your walls and hope that it "blends" into the background.

The trouble it- this is a fixed unit. Nothing you do is going to really "make it go away".

I would go with the Stanley site, pick something you like and make a window seat like Bredlo. That thing looks fantastic, and it will add extra seating along the edge of your room.

Not sure where you're located, but the unpainted furniture place in Somerville (they also have a Watertown store) makes nice, simple radiator covers: http://www.bookcasefactoryoutlet.com/radiators.shtml

Hi ,

check this photo and the article below:

http://www.ohdeedoh.com/uimages/ohdeedoh/2008-11-25-storage.jpg

http://www.ohdeedoh.com/ohdeedoh/heat-cold/radiator-roundup-070472

Hope this helps.

My company BattyBuilt Custom Radiator Covers specializes in designing and building custom radiator covers to suit any style, any room. We serve Westchester NY, Manhattan and parts of Connecticut and New Jersey.

Check out the website here: http://battybuilt.com

I had one of these when I lived in Kansas City. I built a cover. I just made a box frame and then did a mesh cover on all sides so the air could still get through our heating and cooling unit.