Cast Iron Radiators over the last hundred years
Advertising through the 20th Century…
In an age before Google and Instagram…
You’ll be unsurprised to learn that the heating radiator was originally developed in Russia, one of the coldest countries in the world. In 1855, a Prussian-born Russian, Franz San Galli , a businessman living in St. Petersburg was widely credited as one of the inventors of the radiator. He gave it the name "hot-box".
In the late 1800s, companies, such as the American Radiator Company, promoted and developed the mass production of cast iron radiators. Indeed even today, we still source many of our Original Cast Iron Radiators from the United States.
The design of the radiator passed through many stages over the subsequent hundred and fifty years, with continuous development, especially during the Victorian period when cast iron became a decorative feature within the homes of the wealthy. However, it wasn’t really until the early 20th century that radiators became a feature in British homes. In fact, very few homes had the luxury of central heating until well into the 1950s. We now have the choice of a plethora of radiator styles and indeed our choice is very much influenced by the aesthetics of what is essentially, a practical piece of engineering for the home.
Before the age of Google ads and Instagram posts, how did the worlds largest and most prestige radiator company advertise its wares? We’ve curated a selection of original advertisements aimed at a domestic market. Click on the image for a closer look…
Some lofty claims regarding cutting your housework in half! We certainly can’t promise that! You’ll notice though how the advertising campaigns were focused towards the cast iron radiator being a practical, solid piece of engineering but moreover an aspirational symbol of status and style for any family that took pride in their home’s appearance.
Where do we get our home and style ideas from now? If you’re like us and follow a large number of interior and home style Instagram accounts there’s always a few a day that stop you in your scrolling tracks. The one thing that all these have in common is the detail and finishing touches. For every beautiful lounge, kitchen or bathroom, that is impeccably styled, always featured in the room is an equally beautiful cast iron radiator!
Although today, we still preach about the beauty and longevity of a cast iron radiator and how it will add value to your home should you come to sell, we don’t need to take out full page newspaper ads. A lot of our clients find us through recommendation, interior design professionals , happening upon one of our radiators in a heritage property, cathedral or even whilst relaxing in a bar.
How would you harmonise your interior with your radiators? Contemporary and colourful? Subtle and traditional? Let us help you decide.
