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Style your Fireplace with these Helpful Fireplace Styling Tips

As the temperatures rise and fireplaces take a backseat from their primary role, they can still be a stylish centrepiece in your home. Whether you’re decorating for the season or looking to celebrate a summer Christmas, here are some creative tips to transform your fireplace into a statement piece during the warmer months. 

Style with Native Flora

Embrace the beauty of Australian nature by arranging native plants and flowers within your fireplace. Consider using eucalyptus branches, kangaroo paw, or banksia flowers to create a vibrant display. These natural elements not only add texture and colour but also celebrate the unique flora of the region. To elevate the look, place the arrangements in decorative pots, baskets, or woven trays. When it’s time to fire it back up for winter, many of these decorations can stay in the fireplace to simply be burnt off.

Transform It into a Herb Garden

For a practical and visually appealing option, repurpose your fireplace into a small herb garden. Plant aromatic herbs such as basil, parsley, and mint and arrange them neatly within the fireplace. Ensure the area receives adequate sunlight to support growth. This green touch brings life into your space while providing fresh ingredients for summer recipes. 

Add an Ethanol Burner for Ambiance

If you’re missing the cosy glow of a fire, consider adding an ethanol burner to your fireplace. These burners offer the beauty of real flames without the intense heat of a wood-burning fire, making them ideal for summer evenings. They’re also clean-burning, stylish, and easy to install, allowing you to enjoy the ambiance of flickering flames all year round. 

Style with Seasonal and Festive Decorations

Take advantage of an Australian summer Christmas. This time of year offers a unique opportunity to blend festive cheer with seasonal decor. Fill your fireplace with Christmas decorations, such as light-coloured ornaments, Christmas lights in or around the fireplace, or pinecones accented with gold or silver. For a non-festive option, decorate with lanterns, fairy lights, or beach-themed items like driftwood and seashells.

A favourite with young families, an unused fireplace through summer is a great opportunity for a cheeky elf or Santa Clause to find themselves with their legs dangling from the chimney into the fireplace! 

Illuminate with Candles

A simple yet elegant way to style your fireplace is by filling it with candles. opt for varying heights and widths, and use pillar candles or LED versions for safety. Arrange them in clusters or on candle holders to create a warm and inviting glow in the evenings. If mosquitoes are a problem, try a citronella option to ward them away from your home. 

Play with Textures

Add depth to your fireplace by incorporating different textures. Stack decorative logs neatly for a rustic touch, or use woven baskets filled with books or rolled-up blankets for a cozy look. These additions bring charm and functionality to your space. 

Style the Mantel for Summer

Don’t forget the mantel! Lighten it up with summer-inspired decorations like fresh flowers in vases, seashell arrangements, or framed botanical prints. Keep the palette airy with whites, pastels, or natural tones to complement the season’s vibe. 

Your fireplace doesn’t have to go unnoticed during the summer months. With these styling tips, you can turn it into a stunning focal point that celebrates the warmth and beauty of summer. Whether it’s filled with native plants, transformed into a herb garden, or adorned with festive decorations, your fireplace can radiate style and charm all year long. 

Contact Sculpt Fireplace Collection today!

Wood fireplaces are more than just a source of warmth; they create a cozy atmosphere in any home. However, to keep them operating efficiently and safely, regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial. Neglecting these tasks can lead to decreased performance, potential fire hazards, and costly repairs. Here’s how to keep your fireplace in prime condition, along with signs that it may need servicing.

The Importance of Regular Cleaning

Cleaning your fireplace is essential for removing by-products like ash, soot, and creosote, which can accumulate in the firebox, glass doors, and flue. If left unaddressed, these residues can obstruct airflow and create safety risks. A routine cleaning schedule should include weekly maintenance during peak use and thorough inspections at least twice a year.

The Need for Professional Inspections

While homeowners can handle routine cleaning, a professional inspection is essential for ensuring your fireplace’s safety and efficiency. Trained technicians can identify hidden issues that may not be apparent during regular cleaning, such as structural damage to the flue and the integrity of the firebox. Routinely scheduling a professional inspection helps catch problems early, preventing costly repairs and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Signs Your Fireplace Needs Servicing

Recognising the signs that your fireplace requires maintenance is crucial for preventing potential hazards:

1. Diminished Heat Output: If your fireplace isn’t producing as much heat as it used to, it could indicate blockages or inefficiencies.

2. Excessive Smoke: Increased smoke inside the home may signal a blockage in the flue.

3. Odors: A persistent odor of smoke or burning could suggest creosote build-up or other issues requiring immediate attention.

4. Glass Discoloration: If the glass doors are consistently dirty or discoloured, it may indicate improper combustion or the need for better-quality fuel.

5. Cracks or Damage: Noticeable cracks in the firebox or flue can compromise the fireplace’s safety and efficiency.

Cleaning the Glass

The glass doors of a fireplace help regulate heat and maintain efficiency. However, soot and creosote can obscure the view over time.

Let the Glass Cool Completely: Always allow the glass to cool before cleaning to avoid thermal shock to the glass and prevent burning yourself.

Use Appropriate Cleaning Methods: Avoid harsh cleaners that could scratch the glass or damage special coatings. Consider:

Ruco Fireplace Glass Cleaner – This specially formulated product effectively removes soot and creosote without damaging the glass.

A vinegar-water mixture for lighter cleaning tasks.

Damp newspaper dipped in fine ash, followed by rinsing with water for an eco-friendly solution.

Prevent Creosote Build-up: Burn only well-seasoned hardwood with moisture content below 15%. Burning wet or green wood produces more smoke, increasing creosote accumulation.

Removing Ash

Ash can build up quickly, affecting airflow and efficiency.

Empty the Ash Pan Regularly: Remove ash when it reaches about one-third of the pan’s capacity. Leaving a thin layer can help insulate the coals for better heat retention.

Use Proper Tools: A metal container with a secure lid is best for collecting and storing ash. Keep it outside and away from flammable materials.

3. Recycling Ash: Wood ash can be used in gardens as a mineral supplement but should be applied sparingly as to not negatively alter PH levels.

Flue Care

A clean flue is vital for safe fireplace operation.

Schedule Professional Cleaning Twice a Year: Have your flue swept before the heating season and again during peak use to ensure it’s clear of debris.

Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for cracks or deterioration in the flue and firebox. Address issues promptly to maintain safety.

Ensure your Cowl is in place and working correctly: These keep out rain, debris, and animals while allowing smoke to exit, minimising creosote build-up.

Maintaining the Firebox

The firebox contains the burning wood and faces extreme temperatures.

Check Fire Bricks for Damage: Inspect fire bricks for cracks or wear. Damaged bricks should be replaced to maintain heat efficiency.

Replace Worn Gaskets and Seals: Door gaskets help maintain an airtight environment. Replace them if they show signs of wear.

Monitor the Baffle Plate: This component helps direct heat back into the room. Regularly check for damage and replace if necessary.

Reducing Creosote Build-up

Creosote can lead to dangerous flue fires if not managed.

Burn Seasoned Hardwood Only: Using dry wood minimises smoke and creosote formation.

Avoid Overloading the Firebox: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for fuel load to prevent overheating and excessive creosote.

Ensure Adequate Airflow: Proper airflow is essential for efficient combustion. Address any airflow issues immediately.

Seasonal Maintenance and Pre-Use Preparations

Before using your fireplace for the first time each season, conduct a thorough inspection.

Clean the Convection Grates and Appliance Top: Remove dust that has accumulated during inactivity to prevent carbonised build-up.

Check Smoke Detectors: Ensure these detectors are functioning to maintain household safety.

Perform a flue Sweep Before Winter: Even if the flue was cleaned recently, a pre-winter sweep ensures it’s clear of any new debris.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for the safe and efficient operation of your fireplace. Routine tasks like cleaning the glass, removing ash, and having the flue swept can significantly reduce fire risks and extend your fireplace’s lifespan. Products like Ruco Fireplace Glass Cleaner offer effective cleaning solutions for maintaining a clear view of the flames. Additionally, scheduling routine professional inspections is vital for identifying and addressing hidden issues before they become costly problems. By being vigilant for signs of needed servicing and adhering to a routine maintenance schedule, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your fireplace while ensuring safety for years to come.

Contact Sculpt Fireplace Collection for expert advice!

When it comes to enhancing your home with a wood fireplace, safety should be your top priority. At Sculpt Fireplace Collection, we understand that true luxury comes not just from stunning design, but also from peace of mind. Let’s explore why fireplace safety is crucial and how our certified fireplaces meet the highest standards.

The Importance of Fireplace Safety Certification

In Australia, fireplace safety is governed by the AS/NZS2918:2018 standard. This certification ensures that wood fireplaces are:

Safe for Home Use: When installed correctly, certified fireplaces minimize fire risks.

Environmentally Responsible: They must meet strict emission standards, protecting both indoor and outdoor air quality.

Sculpt Fireplace Collection: Where Safety Meets Luxury

We pride ourselves on offering fireplaces that exemplify both safety and style:

100% Certified: All our wood fireplaces are tested and certified to the Australian Standard, ensuring maximum safety.

Design-Forward Safety: Our luxury fireplaces prove that safety doesn’t mean sacrificing aesthetics.

Innovative Technology: Features like the Double Air Flow System (DAFS) in selected Cheminees Seguin Duteriez models enhance both efficiency and safety.

Key Fireplace Safety Features

Our fireplaces incorporate several safety features:

Proper Clearances: Designed for safe installation with appropriate distances from combustible materials.

Efficient Burning: High-quality materials and design ensure clean, efficient burning, reducing the risk of chimney fires.

Sturdy Construction: Our cast iron fireplaces, like the Seguin range, offer durability and enhanced heat distribution.

The Risks of Uncertified Fireplaces

Choosing an uncertified fireplace can lead to:

Increased fire hazards due to improper clearances

Higher emissions, potentially harming your health and the environment 

Potential legal and insurance issues 

Choosing a Safe and Stylish Fireplace

When selecting a wood fireplace, prioritise safety without compromising on style:

1. Look for the AS/NZS2918:2018 certification

2. Choose reputable suppliers like Sculpt Fireplace Collection

3. Ensure professional installation by qualified experts

Our range, from the sleek Axis contemporary inbuilt fireplaces to the unique JC Bordelet suspended designs, offers safe, certified options for every taste.

Conclusion: Safety as the Foundation of Luxury

We believe that true luxury starts with safety. Our certified, design-forward fireplaces offer the perfect blend of style, efficiency, and peace of mind. Moreover, experience the warmth and elegance of a French-made wood fireplace, knowing that your safety is our top priority.

Explore our range of certified, luxury wood fireplaces and elevate your home with a heating solution that’s as safe as it is stunning.

Darren Palmer’s Visit To The JC Bordelet Factory

During The Block’s: Darren Palmer’s visit to the JC Bordelet Factory in Montpellier, France, he was able to see the creation of his favourite hand crafted product; the Bordelet Tatiana 997. Darren Palmer Factory Visit

The Bordelet range of fireplaces feature 5 unique and hand crafted fireplaces, each boasting different festures.

The Bordelet Tatiana 997 is elegant and sleek, designed to rotate 360º as to feature its flame in any view in a room. Speak of its hand crafted details and perfected shape, Darren Palmer himself then assisted the product shapers by sculpting a Bordelet Tatiana 997 with assistance from the craftsmen.

Marvelled by the intricacy of the production, Darren Palmer talks about how unbelievable the entire process is to view firsthand. The Tatiana 997 has a signature curve in its hood, as to allow for a larger viewing space and heat output, the production to create this look is extremely detailed and takes some time to create a perfected product.

Although the Bordelet Tatiana 997 is created to host a flame fuelled by wood, it can also be converted into a gas fireplace. Still retaining its beauty and shape, a Gas Converted Bordelet Tatiana 997 allows the flame to be endless and controll.

Darren Palmer Factory Visit

For the past 40 years Jean-Claude Bordelet has designed and manufactured contemporary suspended metallic fireplaces in his workshop in Montpellier in France. It was in 1982 when JC Bordelet caused a sensation when he presented at a Parisian Trade Show, he showed his audacity and innovation when he designed a completely open, central fireplace suspended from the ceiling lacquered in vibrant blue. Since then, the company has cemented itself as the avant-garde masters in wood fireplace design, integrating colour and spectacular metal techniques. All JC Bordelet designer wood fireplaces are hand made by experienced and passionate craft-people, the only fireplaces using 4mm thick steel for durability and performance. Each and every suspended firepeice is begun in the sketch rooms of Bordelet and personalised by their designers, for a unique and exceptionally finished product and with only limited pieces per year being made worldwide.

Hanging wood fireplaces with glass surrounds can be used with either the glass open for decorative purposes, or closed, for functional purposes, can take large sized logs, and also have viewing areas to be enjoyed from 180 degrees to 360 degrees. For ease of use and maintenance all Bordelet suspended fireplaces come standard with grates and ash containers. The top components of the suspended fireplaces are fixed to ceilings and roof cavities with brackets, and are all custom made to each unit ensuring ease of installation. Now, thanks to Sculpt’s luxury fireplace collection making these dreams come true for Australian and New Zealand audiences, the opportunity to install one of these beautiful hanging sculptures is now possible. Whether its a retro inspired renovation, a mid-century modern, contemporary or a suspended outdoor fireplace in your entertainment area, there is a style and design to suit your desire. Making the statement piece of a suspended wood fireplace unmistakably powerful in impact.

Check out Sculpt Fire Collection range of suspended fireplaces and order yours today