Haute Uses of Fire

Fire is a hot topic these days – especially when it comes to design. But the real question is: should you go for faux or the real thing? And with artists like Ann Wood creating custom hearth paintings starting at $1,500, which are incredibly realistic and also very cool, it comes down to personal preference. With Woods you can customize the color of the flames, style of the andirons and mantel border to create your signature fire feature.

For those with a contemporary inclination, EcoSmart has introduced Zeta – crafted from timber, leather, and stainless steel. This modern and energy-saving portable fireplace is modern and elegantly styled. Designed by architect John Dimopoulos, it features an inviting design with a glass and steel surround. The fire runs on denatured ethanol, an easily renewable energy source. The user can regulate the size of the flame and turn it on or off without having direct contact with the fire. And because of its energy-saving features, owners might even be eligible for a tax rebate in the U.S.

However, if you are looking to take it outside – Stone Forest has come up with a bevy of organic and contemporary fire vessels. Their Suspended Fire Vessel is a hand-forged iron basin that is suspended between a natural green-gray granite boulder that has been cleaved in half and can be used with either wood or gas. Other savvy fire pits include their Saturn and Helios Fire Vessels. Place it near the pool for added effect.