In our hyper-tech world, there are still a few things that can’t be replicated with a smartphone app. A crackling fire is one of them. With its warmth, dancing flames and crisp tang of smoke, fire beckons us to gather together and be social the old-fashioned way.
The cabin is a great place to get back to kindle and tinder, before there was Kindle and Tinder. Imagine
warming up to these new-fangled and beloved classic hearth products.
1. Rack It, Stack It.
If you burn wood at the cabin, storage can be a challenge. How will you keep firewood and kindling dry, handy and contained? Terrain offers an attractive option with the Pyramid log holder in hand-forged, durable iron. Use it indoors or set it outside, where the iron will rust to a warm patina. Retailer: Terrain,
shopterrain.com, (877) 583-7724
2. Stone Faced.
The Great Room series from Acucraft offers fireplaces that are large and in charge. The long-burning wood units are tightly sealed and outfitted with blowers to circulate warmed air throughout spaces up to 4,000 square feet. For classic cabin charm, nothing beats a true stone masonry surround and a wood mantel. Manufacturer: Acucraft,
acucraft.com, (888) 317-6499
3. Thrill of the Grill.
Although it can make a delicious dinner, the average grill isn’t designed to delight the eye. Leave the black box behind and embrace new heights in grilling. The Phoenix grill and outdoor fireplace, designed by a Danish architect, makes a bold statement in Corten steel that oxidizes to a beautiful patina. An adjustable grill rack allows for perfect cooking, while the tall chimney creates a strong draft that funnels smoke up and away. Manufacturer: Wittus,
wittus.com, (914) 764-5679
4. Move Over, Potbelly.
For some cabin lovers, a wood stove is a must. Old, smoky, leaky stoves are out: New models, like the IronStrike Performer wood stove, are EPA-certified to burn wood cleanly. The Performer does double-duty with a cooktop surface that allows you to prepare food, even during a power outage. A glass front provides a comforting view of the fire. Today’s stoves come in a wide variety of finishes and styles to suit your cabin’s décor.Producer: Innovative Hearth Products,
ironstrike.us.com
5. On the Rise.
A centrally located fireplace helps spread heat evenly throughout an open floorplan and raising its firebox up off the floor means everyone – from sofa sitters to the kitchen chef – can enjoy the flickering flames. The Pier three-sided gas fireplace unit is see-through, allowing for plenty of flexibility in placement. Try it between two rooms, or consider a double-sided fireplace that opens to both inside and the outdoors. Manufacturer: Heat & Glo, heatnglo.com, (888) 427-3973. Home designer: Bach Design Studio,
bachdesignstudio.com, (404) 281-1258
6. New & Renewable.
New options in hearth products go beyond traditional wood and gas. This outdoor or indoor Mini T unit burns ethanol, a fuel made by fermenting plant by-products. No venting, flue or chimney is needed, so the burner can be placed anywhere. Tempered glass panels surround and reflect the flame while ensuring safety. Manufacturer: EcoSmart Fire,
ecosmartfire.com, (888) 611-7908
7. Long Shelf Life.
Add to the timeless nature of your hearth with reclaimed antique wood. A centuries-old mantel beam brings character and unique charm to a fireplace, whether it’s indoors or out. Salvaged wood can also be used for a surround or built-in firewood storage cubbies. Manufacturer: Appalachian Antique Hardwood,
aahardwoods.com, (877) 817-7758