Windowsill above a radiator?

[PinkCamelias]

I can't decide if I should have a windowsill or not. It's a big window, flush with the wall it will stand in, in a recess framed with wood panelling, and a radiator is cast iron with and fits into the recess.

What would be better? Photos attached are an inspiration to show what each option would look like (but my window is not a sash as in one of them).

A windowsill is practical, and I think I'd like it, but should I cover this decorative radiator? It will be visible otherwise of course, just the top of it would be covered. The windowsill would be ca. 10 cm above it.

Yes, do it. Radiators are ugly and get dusty. Plants and books on the shelf will be more attractive. Be sure it extends far enough to cover it.

This thing is that this radiator is decorative (it's the white one on the photo) so not really ugly! Hence my dilemma.

Sorry, where I live that is very common and ugly! To each his own. If you like it then don't cover it up?

Whether it’s ugly or not, it is of course a matter of opinion, but now I’m intrigued where you live that these radiators are common! :)

You will only hide the top of the radiator. I find having a windowsill very useful and the cat lives to sit on it and look out at the garden. I also like the old style rads. Am envious!

Thank you @blackcherryconserve . No cat at the moment, but it is a very good argument :)

Our old house had radiators under the window similar to yours , we had no windowboard above them as the windows were set on the inside.

only picture i can find .

It's a BEAUTIFUL radiator!
I'd still put a board above it like in your second photo. How warm and cosy would that be as a seat, and you can still see the radiator.

OP if you put a windowsill above that radiator you have to get a cat, it would cruel not to

It looks very nice too!

I am not sure once could sit there, @NotbloodyGivingupYet , it may not be deep enough. But perfect to put a book or a mug if there is an armchair nearby, which is the main reason I think I want it!

yes I suppose I will have to, @MyOtherCarisAVauxhallZafira ! My kids would agree with you :)

Ah. Go on go on go on!

I believe they help push the hot air into the room, as opposed to going up to the ceiling before circulating around, so you get more efficient heating.

I would put in a windowsill.

Helps to throw the heat back into the room rather than up onto the cold glass.
You can display plants, flowers etc which I think looks lovely.
If you have a chair nearby the sill is useful for books, drinks etc.

Yes to windowsill. Otherwise the radiator would send hot up air up and across the window pane!

I agree - they're awful. I much prefer rooms with no radiators.