In the 90’s, portable ceramic heaters were “high tech” and popular at the old cabin. I have two of those, as room heaters... I am planning to buy an Envi this fall for next winter. I have the old ceramics, but want to try something new. I am in CA, electricity is expensive. I want something to “keep the chill off” vs heating. I just wear a sweater.

We might suggest keeping all of the paint the same color in the basement. There shouldn't really be a need for wallpaper. Your furnishings should add some color and make it feel finished. Here are some of our designs that might also aid you:

OK, 180˚F water temperature, 20-yr old boiler, 150-yr old house already reveals quite a lot. You probably have a mix of everything from cast iron radiators to copper tube aluminum plate base board emitters. Knowing how the piping from the boiler is configured will at least in part determine the water temperature that will reach the new basement emitters. If it’s a series configuration such that the basement emitters receive the hot water last before returning to the boiler, the water temperature will be at its lowest. If your system is piped that all emitters are in parallel, then they all get about the same water temperature whether the emitter is first or last. Even if the water temperature has dropped because its a series piping that still can be OK if the new basement emitters (fan coils) are sized for a lower water temperature with the correct water flow rate emitting the designed amount of Btu. I understand that financial resources might be limited. I would suggest consulting with a professional that is at the top of their hydronic game and understand all the various piping configurations not only for the basement Reno that you’re planning now but for future upgrades down the road as well. One of the most important things to know is that regardless the source of hydronic water heating (electric, oil, gas) is that the lower the water temperature your system requires - the more money you will save and the more efficient the system will be. Water temperature matters; piping, pumps, zone valves and controls all matter. The other thing to be aware of for the future is that air-to-water hydronic heat pumps are here, they are operationally the least expensive way to hydronically heat and cool, except for geothermal - if you can get you supply water temperature and system to function well down at about 120˚F and below. Hydronic heat pumps can also supply full capacity hot water in many cases. Future renovations involving air-to-water hydronic heat pumps could also supply full central hydronic cooling with zoning and dehumidification - without ever having to install any ductwork. This is a great option for heritage homes where you want to preserve the original look an d feel of the home as well as its heritage value. The link below for reference, is to but 1-type of system, with every passing year they are coming on-line to market - fast ! Taco System M IMPO SR

Here is a concept. Large-scale graphite or charcoal gray matte tile or stone for the recessed portion and the bump-out. You could also apply a texture such as plaster or a rubbed finish.