Style your Fireplace with these Helpful 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. 

As winter approaches, many Australian homeowners are considering the warmth and ambiance of a wood fireplace. However, not all fireplaces are created equal. In this post, we’ll explore the critical importance of choosing a certified wood fireplace, with a focus on the luxury options offered by Sculpt Fireplace Collection. 

Understanding Fireplace Certification in Australia 

In Australia and New Zealand, wood fireplaces must adhere to the Australian/New Zealand Standard for Domestic solid fuel burning appliances (AS/NZS2918:2018)[1]. This certification is crucial for several reasons: 

1. Environmental Protection: Certified wood fireplaces are required to meet strict emission standards, ensuring they are among the cleanest fireplaces in the world.

2. Safety Assurance: The certification process ensures that fireplaces are safe for use in homes when installed correctly.

Sculpt Fireplace Collection: Luxury Meets Certification 

Sculpt Fireplace Collection, an Australian-owned company, exclusively supplies some of the world’s most sought-after high-end luxury fireplaces. Moreover, All fireplaces offered by Sculpt are tested and certified to the Australian Standard, providing customers with the perfect blend of luxury design and environmental responsibility. 

Key Features of Sculpt Fireplaces: 

Certified Safety: All fireplaces meet the AS/NZS2918:2018 standard, thus, ensuring safety and compliance. 

Design Forward: Offering a dynamic collection of designer fires that serve as true sculptural pieces in any living space. 

Environmental Responsibility: Manufactured with high-quality materials and designed for efficient, clean burning. 

Why Certification Matters 

1. Environmental Impact 

 Uncertified wood fireplaces can significantly contribute to air pollution. Certified fireplaces, like those offered by Sculpt Fireplace Collection, are designed to minimize emissions, helping to protect both indoor and outdoor air quality. 

 2. Safety Concerns 

Perhaps the most critical reason for choosing a certified fireplace is safety. Uncertified appliances may require larger hearths and greater clearances from combustible materials, potentially leading to serious safety hazards. 

 3. Choosing a Certified Fireplace 

When selecting a wood fireplace, always look for the AS/NZS2918:2018 certification. This ensures that your fireplace: 

– Meets strict emission standards 

– Is safe when installed correctly 

– Complies with Australian regulations 

By choosing a certified wood fireplace from Sculpt Fireplace Collection, you’re not only ensuring the safety of your home but also contributing to cleaner air in your community while enjoying a luxurious, design-forward heating solution. 

Remember, the warmth and comfort of a wood fireplace shouldn’t come at the cost of your safety or the environment. Opt for certified appliances from reputable suppliers like Sculpt Fireplace Collection, and ensure they’re installed by qualified professionals for the best experience in both form and function. 

Sculpt Fireplaces Featured on Architecture & Design: A Blend of Style & Performance

At Sculpt Fireplace Collection, we believe a fireplace should be more than just a source of warmth. It should be a statement piece that enhances a home’s interior. This dedication to design and innovation has earned Sculpt Fireplaces a feature on Architecture & Design. The article highlights how our fireplaces balance aesthetic beauty and functionality, making them a top choice for modern and traditional spaces alike.

Sculpt Designs: Transforming Fireplace Innovation

This feature explores how Sculpt Designs redefines fireplace design. Each fireplace is created to complement different architectural styles. Whether in a sleek modern home or a classic setting, these fireplaces blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

The article also discusses our focus on cutting-edge technology. We use high-quality materials and energy-efficient designs to ensure fireplaces offer more than just warmth. Our fireplaces become the focal point of any room, combining elegance and performance effortlessly.

Key Takeaways from the Feature

Architectural Beauty – Our fireplaces ensure to enhance interiors with sleek, sophisticated designs.

Expert Craftsmanship – Every fireplace is built with precision, ensuring long-lasting durability.

Seamless Integration – Our designs fit both contemporary and traditional spaces, adding elegance to any setting.

A Leader in Luxury Fireplaces

The Architecture & Design feature confirms and showcases our commitment to excellence. Homeowners, architects, and designers rely on Sculpt Fireplaces to bring both style and performance to their projects. Our focus on innovation, efficiency, and craftsmanship sets us apart in the industry, making us the go to choice for statement fireplaces.

Read the Full Article

To learn more about Sculpt ‘s approach to fireplace innovation, read the full feature here:

Sculpt Design: Professionals Providing Aesthetic & Functional Fireplaces

At Sculpt Fireplace Collection, we invite you to explore our luxury fireplace range. Find the perfect blend of warmth, design, and functionality for your space 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. 

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

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

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

4. A vinegar-water mixture for lighter cleaning tasks.

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

6. 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. 

1. 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. 

2. 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. 

1. 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. 

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

3. 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. 

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

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

3. 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. 

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

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

3. 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. 

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

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

3. 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. 

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: 

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

2. 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: 

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

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

3. 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. 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.

Royd Clan’s Autonomous House x Sculpt Fireplace Collection

Both off-the-grid and autonomous, this striking family farmhouse near Geelong in Victoria connects its occupants with nature and each other.
When the owners first bought – sight unseen – the 89-acre farm on which their home now sits, the rolling hills were covered in noxious boxthorn weed and the original stone farmhouse was in ruins.
With the help of Landcare, they set about clearing the invasive spiny shrubs and planted 2500 native trees in their place. Regenerating the land was important for homeowners Cam and Sally, who had both grown up in the country.

“I remember planting trees with my mother when I was a kid, and I just loved that you could create nature and a reserve over time and watch it grow; I’ve always loved that,” says Cam, an agricultural scientist.
He and Sally set aside 30 acres to do just that. “It’s been awesome watching the spotted gums grow, and actually quite quickly, really. It doesn’t take that long to change the landscape,” says Cam.

Inspirational project

When it came time to design a house for the farm, they turned to an architect they’d worked with before on a house in North Melbourne: Nadine Samaha from level architekture>konstrukt.

Drawing inspiration from the ruins, boulders and mythology of the picturesque property overlooking the Barrabool Hills near Geelong, Nadine got creative in designing an autonomous, off-the-grid home. The five pavilions making up the home emulate the boulders on the site, the clustered design welcoming natural light and cross-ventilation into all of them.

“It really integrates well with the land,” says Nadine. “With its shimmering cladding reflecting the trunks of the surrounding gum trees, it almost vanishes into the landscape.”

Nadine is passionate about creating spaces and forms that seamlessly connect with the natural world and support wellbeing. An advocate of biophilic design, Nadine mentors graduate architects, teaches Environmental Sustainable Design at RMIT, and chairs the Australian Institute of Architects’ Sustainable Architecture Forum – when she’s not designing incredible houses, that is.

Axis I1000FS SS

Handmade in the Rhone Alps region of France, the Axis I1000FS Single Sided wood fireplace is a display of geometric versatility and artisan engineered construction. The wood fireplace exudes a mesmerising display of flames and unsurpassed design excellence. With a heating capacity of up to 300m2 and an average efficiency of 66%, this unit is sure to stun in any space.

Fitted with DAFS (Double Air Flow System), this technology works by injecting oxygen at a determined level inside of the combustion chamber. The supply of new oxygen will burn the gases and smoke that has not yet been burnt and prevent them from being released into the flu system. The additional self-washing glass system feature, provides less CO2 emissions, creating longer fire term/burn time, cleaner glass and bricks and total combustion of the firewood.

To view the stunning French handcrafted Axis I1000FS Single Sided Fireplace, click here.

To view the original article by “ArchiPro”, please click here.

McEwing & Partners

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Sculpt Fireplace Collection

“Organic in its creation and handcrafted by a passion for natural-born beauty, this bespoke beachside home unveils a stunning and unique architectural style”

Striking yet exquisitely elegant, featuring high arches and curves, cathedral ceilings, organic earthy colours and handcrafted finishes this brand new luxury home was created. While a northern orientation brings sunlight pouring in to complete the natural vibe in this sensational home.

Welcomed by a long tree-lined driveway with an auto gate and surrounded by gardens designed by a horticulturalist, the inside offers outstanding individuality including a lime wash colour scheme, exposed concrete, Wild River timber flooring and a spectacular kitchen crowned with a giant arched window. Across a breezeway, the fully lined garage cleverly doubles as a rumpus studio that can be used for your private yoga sessions or a deluxe space to work from home complete with a kitchenette, while semi-attached guest accommodation includes a sumptuous bedroom and ensuite with the same luxurious finishes at the rest of the home.

Sculpt Fireplace Collection were thrilled to be featured within this spectacular home with our gorgeous Seguin Europa 7, being a prominent feature in the main living space. Contemporary meets classic with the Seguin Europa 7 Cheminee Fireplace with swing door mechanism. This beautifully crafted pure cast iron wood fire can be installed as a built-in or freestanding fireplace. Hand made in France, the undeniable quality of the Seguin Europa 7 Cheminee Fireplace will also aim to please aesthetically and burn effectively.

Based in the heart of Auvergne, France, Seguin Duteriez fireplaces are renowned for producing some of Europe’s most revolutionary and sought-after range of elite fireplace products for over 30 years. Artisan engineered and with the use of exclusive materials, Seguin fireplaces are manufactured with 100% pure cast iron and are highly regarded for their durability and increased heating output.

Unique to majority of Seguin wood fireplaces is the use of DAFS (Double Air Flow System) technology. The aim is to inject oxygen at a determined level inside of the combustion chamber. The supply of new oxygen will burn the gases and smoke that has not yet been burnt and prevent them from being released into the flue system. The advantages of this; a longer fire term, cleaner glass, also total combustion of the fire wood.

These cast iron Cheminee Fireplaces are well known for their heat retention even after the fire has dissipated, allowing for a longer lasting heat well into those colder nights. All Seguin cast iron fireboxes come with a damper, air washsystem, fire grate and ash pan as standard and thanks to the choice of high quality raw material Seguin cast iron Cheminee Fireboxes are guaranteed for 10 years.

This project combines beautifully neutral tones with statement features for an incredible finish, Sculpt are proud to be part of!

To View the Seguin Europa 7, click here. 

Project Details

Real Estate Agent: McEwing & Partners

Photography: Space Craft

To view this property from McEewing & Partners click here. 

‘Brighton 6’ x Sculpt Fireplace Collection

Making the most of the Australian summer, Brighton 6 Project by Pleysier Perkins and InForm Design sits on a corner site and is brought to life by subtle injections of greenery.

In the creation of this stunning home, it was obvious to project architect Ross Berger that the clients had an affinity for mid-century modern pavilions. To maintain their desired outcome the design boasts light-filled spaces that engage the landscape in such a way as to intertwine the built environment with the natural one, that ultimately reflects the client’s lifestyle.

The home revolves around the living zones that were designed to meet family needs and ensure that the interior spaces can afford multiple uses.  The creation of the breakfast bar and custom sunken lounge boasts a timeless material palette; making it the perfect place to showcase the Sculpt Fireplace Collection, Axis I1000FS fireplace. Axis fireplaces specialise in the manufacturing of designer wood fireplaces in a variety of different styles, shapes and sizes.

Handmade in the Rhone Alps region of France, the Axis I1000FS Single Sided wood fireplace is a display of geometric versatility and artisan engineered construction. The wood fireplace exudes a mesmerising display of flames and unsurpassed design excellence. With a heating capacity of up to 300m2 and an average efficiency of 66%, this unit is sure to stun in any space.

Fitted with DAFS (Double Air Flow System), this technology works by injecting oxygen at a determined level inside of the combustion chamber. The supply of new oxygen will burn the gases and smoke that has not yet been burnt and prevent them from being released into the flu system. The additional self-washing glass system feature, provides less CO2 emissions, creating longer fire term/burn time, cleaner glass and bricks and total combustion of the firewood.

The neutral tones and various textures reinforce the client’s appreciation for adventure and nature. Brighton 6 embodies a lightness that evokes a sense of joy in every space. A stunning project that Sculpt Fireplace Collection were proud to be part of.

To view the stunning French handcrafted Axis i1000FS Single Sided Wood Fireplace, click here.

The Brighton6 X Sculpt Fireplace Collection

To view the original article by “The Local Project”, please click here.

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Making sure your home is Winter ready and stylish can be a difficult and daunting task. Learn how to ensure your home balances heating requirements with design flow in our latest blog feature in “The Fold – Southern Highlands”.

Interviewing Fiona and Jason Day, owners of exclusive Sculpt Fireplace Collection stockist, Highland Fires & BBQs in Mittagong, NSW; The Fold discusses how to get the most out of your Wood Fireplace this Winter! Featuring the stunning installation project of the Axis i1000IB DS in Berrima, NSW, Fiona mentions that “Australians love their open plan living and double-sided fireplaces provide a central feature to divide spaces and heat two areas simultaneously”, and we couldn’t agree more!

With the fantastic heating capacity of our entire Double Sided Fireplaces range, coupled with various design options including contemporary linear and industrial cast iron; each unit provides a unique heating experience to compliment any residential or commercial application! Becoming increasingly popular, Cast Iron fireplaces such as the Seguin range, are long lasting due to their “solid and robust nature”. Jason mentions the trend of different installation types of these cast iron fireplaces, “more than ever people are installing them as freestanding fires to show off their structural qualities”.

The key to choosing the perfect fireplace for a home, is picking a unit with cohesive style and accurate heating capacities. Fiona discusses the perfect design to suit any home comes with Axis fireplaces, with minimalist trims and large glass viewing areas; much like the Axis H1600XXL, which holds the title of Australia’s largest fireplace, available in both single and double sided! Amazingly, the Axis H1600XXL is not only a stunning feature with major WOW factor, but also provides incredible heating; so much so that the unit can be ducted off to provide heating to additional rooms!

For expert heating advice and to see the stunning range of Sculpt Fireplace Collection units from Seguin, Axis and JC Bordelet on display, visit Highland Fires & BBQs in Mittagong, NSW!

Read the full blog post here!