In a way modern fireplaces are like modern art. You may look at it and think ‘but it doesnt look like a fireplace’ and you may look at it and think ‘wheres the craftsmanship’. In the end though, isn’t it about whether you want to look at it or not!
January 24, 2010
December 17, 2009
Internet selling
It is tempting for all of us (during this drawn out credit crunch) to push for discount and to look for the cheapest buying option. However, buying a Fireplace Mantel, Stone Fireplace, Marble Fireplace, Fireplace Suite, Cast Iron Fireplace or Stove is not generally a simple purchase, a it might be easy to find internet shops that will sell these kinds of products, but you must be aware that advice about the product before you purchase is vital. You need to know that the Fireplace/ Fire/Stove is suitable for your property (believe me it is a lot more complicated than you probably realise) and advice, fitting and good aftercare service is essential throughout your purchase. If you want to ensure peace of mind and good aftercare you should purchase your products through an Independent Fireplace Retailer. In addition you will be showing support for your local business during a difficult time for them!
The National Fireplace Assosiation recently released this article:
Many internet retailers fail to point out to their purchasers that the installation of their new wood-burning stove is governed by the Building Regulations. To paraphrase Approved Document J of the Building Regulations 2002, purchasers of solid fuel stoves (those burning wood fuels or coal based fuels) must either apply to their local authority building inspectorate for a Building Notice or use a registered member of a ‘Competent Persons’ scheme for solid fuels. The only competent persons scheme for solid fuel is run by HETAS, a not-for-profit company which approves solid fuel appliances and fuels as well as operating this ‘Competent Person’s’ scheme in England and Wales. The HETA web site at www.hetas.co.uk.
With little or no information received by purchasers from internet stove sellers, many try to install these stoves themselves unaware of the Building Regulation requirements or the possible danger of fire or carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning if these products are not installed properly. The National Fireplace Association, which is the trade body for the fireplace industry (fires, fireplaces and stoves powered by all types of fuel), would like to see each stove accompanied by a sheet spelling out the purchaser’s duty to have the stove installed safely in line with both the Building Regulations and the manufacturer’s instructions.
November 30, 2009
Contemporary Fireplaces
Contemporary fireplaces are available in various forms, stylish and sleek by design and genarally ’space saving’ makes them ideally suited to modern apartments and homes. Some of the most popular types of contemporary fireplace are known as Hole in the wall fires.
The remote control gas LBR 26'' Fire
Akal remote control gas fire bowl - Chrome (shown in Contemporary Agean Limestone Low suite)
If you are looking for something even more innovative and slightly more daring than the popular Hole in the wall fire, then the Fire Bowl is for you. The Capital Contemporary Fire Bowls were designed by the award winning sculptor Lilly Swan and are named after her love of Yoga the Boji, Akal and Oracle. In the new year the Akal Bowl will be aired on a Channel five programme (called Cowboy Builders) and was chosen by a team of designers and, ex Loose Woman presenter and Emmerdale actress Sheree Murphy.
November 17, 2009
Cast Iron Fireplaces – the traditional wood burning fireplace
There is no doubt that a cast iron fireplace is a striking thing. Once manufactured in extremely large sizes for the likes of stately properties they are now available in modest sizes and the cast iron arch can look fab in a bedroom, kitchen or dining room.
Wood burning is the current popular burning method and the Capital Wandsworth cast iron arches are fitted with deep burning backs which enables you to burn more logs for longer than most standard sizes available. Although, if wood & coal burning is not your thing, then Capital can provide a gas or electric alternative.
Wandsworth Black - cast iron fireplace
