How To Build A Radiator Cover With Secret Storage

Sometimes the best organization tip is to make custom storage for the clutter and close the door. I have an A/C unit and a radiator in my office that are eye sores, so we decided to make a slatted radiator cover using a fun IKEA Hack so they can still function but aren’t the only thing you see when you look at this wall.

A Sam Special

We’re taking an Ikea cabinet, and customizing it as well as building the an aesthetic solution to my heating and cooling units.

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Want to see this build in action? You can watch my build video here (+ make sure to subscribe to my channel)!

Tools + Materials

Tools

• Miter Saw
• Sander
• Drill/Driver
• Nailer
• Multitool
• Staining Supplies
• Drill Bits
• Pocket Hole Jig

Materials

• Ikea Ivar Cabinet
• 1 x 2 Boards
• Magnets
• DAP Rapid Fuse
• Wood Stain
• Pocket Hole Screws

1. Building a Radiator Cover

As you can see, the AC unit and radiator are not cute to look at. So this is what we’re going to be covering, without interfering with their functionality.

To start we used the miter saw to cut the pieces for the box that would go around the two units.

Then we used a pocket hole jig to drill pocket holes for the screws.

Then we assembled the hollow box that would go around the AC unit and radiator. 

Then we checked the fit of the box. Spoiler alert, it fit perfectly.

2. Installing the Cabinet Top

To make the top of the cabinet I cut the down a 1×12 board.

We realized that the top wouldn’t be flush with the wall unless I removed a part of the window trim. So I scored a line with a pencil for where the top and bottom of the 1×12 lined up with the trim.

So I used my multitool to cut the window trim.

Once that piece of trim was removed, the cabinet top fit like a glove.

3. Cutting, Sanding & Staining

Next it was time to cut out all the pieces for the slatted cover.

Then we sanded! Everyone’s favorite part of course.

And stained! It was so much faster with Danie’s help. This would’ve taken so much time if I was solo.

4. Decorative Touches

Next the Ivar cabinet needed it’s doors installed.

And we started nailing in the slats to the frame. But, we needed a solution for in front of the AC and radiator, because I need to be able to access them. 

5. Come up with a genius radiator cover hack

So, we made a very fancy jig with this popsicle stick to drill a small hole in the middle of the each slat on both the top and bottom.

Then we applied glue to the hole.

And we placed a small magnet in the hole.

We repeated the same process on the frame so that the magnets would match up. 

Pro tip: we also numbered the slats so it’s easy to remove and replace without having to guess where each piece goes.

It’s so easy to pull off a slat and replace it now.

The Final Reveal

I am loving how this cabinet turned out and just knowing that it’s also an Ikea hack is even more satisfying. (Thank you again DIY Danie!) The magnetic slats are such a win with this build for both form and function. I am so glad we figured out a way to make this section of DIY Huntress HQ look so good while still being able to heat and cool the space. There will be more projects to come so stay tuned, and until then friends, Happy DIYing!

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