Winter's the time to get all fired up

TRADITIONALLY, fireplaces were the domain of the indoors but they're increasingly finding their way into outdoor rooms, where they create year-round ambience and warmth.

The Fire Company has created the EcoSmart Fire collection to cater for this growing demand for outdoor fireplaces.

Company director Stephane Thomas said while the kitchen was the heart of the home, a fireplace was the centrepiece of an outdoor room. "It's the ultimate drawcard, adding a comfort factor much like plush cushions and furnishings indoors," he said.

But Mr Thomas said it was important for people to have realistic expectations when choosing an outdoor fireplace.

"Nothing heats a large open outdoor space, so consider exactly what a flame can or will offer and have that drive the decision for your choice. Ease of installation, ability to relocate, impact on the environment, the area in which it will be used and the best integration of the flame so it creates the perfect gathering space for outdoor entertaining are important.

"Outdoor living rooms have become one of the hottest trends in home design — and with householders wanting to use them throughout the year, outdoor fireplaces have become very popular.

"EcoSmart Fire models aren't just for the cooler months. They have numerous benefits — providing warmth, adding a simple but stylish design element to the outdoor room or garden, creating a focal point and enhancing the ambience."

Mr Thomas said EcoSmart fires were fuelled by bioethanol which was environmentally friendly and energy-efficient without the producing greenhouse gas emissions.

Details: ecosmartfire.com.