DIY Scandinavian style radiator conversion by Marjolijn (@interiorbymarjolein)

Transform your interior with a DIY radiator conversion in Scandinavian style. These handy DIY tips will show you how to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution to conceal your radiator. Discover the beauty of the Scandinavian style and give your interior a fresh and modern look.

Description by Marjolijn (@interiorbymarjolein)

An unfinished radiator is a real eyesore for me. We have underfloor heating on the ground floor, but upstairs we have radiators. In the bedroom the radiator is really not a 'nice thing'. I got to work and made a radiator casing from oak myself. In this article I will show you how you can make a Scandinavian style radiator conversion yourself!

How I made this project

What do you need?

Cut to size

• Oak Timberboard A/B
  Type: 19mm
  Size: 56,0 x 14,0 cm
  Quantity: 1
• Oak Timberboard A/B
  Type: 19mm
  Size: 65,0 x 14,0 cm
  Quantity: 1
• Oak Timberboard A/B
  Type: 19mm
  Size: 128,0 x 14,0 cm
  Quantity: 1
• Oak Timberboard A/B
  Type: 19mm
  Size: 127,0 x 5,0 cm
  Quantity: 7
• Oak Timberboard A/B
  Type: 19mm
  Size: 65,0 x 5,0 cm
  Quantity: 1

Supplies

• Reinforcement angle 40x40
• Screws 4.0 x 16 mm
• Screws 4.5 x 35 mm
• Drill press
• Tape measure

Step by step explanation

Step 1: Measuring the radiator

First measure the height, length and depth of the radiator. Use the dimensions to determine the sizes of the parts. Our radiator had the following dimensions: H 50 cm x W 120 cm x D 10 cm. There is a large rotary knob on the right side of our radiator. This has been taken into account in the design. The shelf on the right is shorter than the shelf on the left, so the knob fits through.

Step 2: Cutting to size

Normally here are the steps to cut the panels to size . But thanks to the great service of OPMAATZAGEN.nl this is not necessary! They deliver the panels to your home in the desired size.

Step 3: Marking and pre-drilling the frame

Using an auxiliary slat, mark the distance of the horizontal slats on the center frame. Then pre-drill the marked spots in the slat. I used the 2.5 mm size for pre-drilling.

Step 4: Drilling into the framework

A reinforcing angle was chosen for drilling into the framework because of the strength it provides. Start by attaching the top and side panels using a reinforcing corner. Then place the slats at the correct distance in the frame. Always use an auxiliary slat to determine the distance (always 5 cm between the slats). Then attach the slats to the top and bottom of the side panels with a reinforcing angle.

Step 5: Screwing the center frame

The pre-screwed center frame is attached to the top shelf with a reinforcing corner. The slats are then screwed onto this.

Step 6: Attaching the reinforcement corner for strength

In principle, the slats are secured between the side panels. However, we had one slat that was not completely wedged between the side panels. We attached this slat to the side panel with an extra reinforcing angle.

And this is how you create a beautiful radiator casing with oak in Scandinavian style!

What do you think of the end result? Do you also have an 'ugly' radiator(s) in your home that you need to work with? Hopefully I was able to inspire you! Do you want more inspiration for DIY ideas? Then take a look at our Projects.

Dimensions of my DIY project

~169.0 x ~65.0 x ~14.0 cm