There truly is nothing quite like a roaring hot fire throughout the autumn and winter months. Through the ages, fireplaces have been essential for survival, and have formed a huge part of people’s daily lives. They have been used to cook food for centuries, providing sustenance, socialisation and essential warmth every step of the way. As technologies have developed, fireplaces and their main uses have naturally evolved. However, they still remain a pillar within homes all across the world. Here’s a little bit more about the history of fireplaces and fireside accessories, and how they’ve changed over time…
THE FRANKLIN STOVE
Crafted from cast iron, these stoves were designed to be installed within the centre of the home. Producing more heat than previous designs, this stove revolutionised the way food was cooked and soon set the trajectory for the creation of central heating systems.
RUMFORD FIREPLACE
Sir Benjamin Thomas, also known as Count Rumford, designed a new model of fireplace including a more compact and taller shape with a narrow ‘chimney’ for fast smoke removal. Many fireplaces we see in homes today were inspired by this design.
FIREPLACE ALTERNATIVES
The invention and development of the electric fire, enclosed log burners and fuel-efficient designs owe a lot to their cousin’s history. Allowing us to still enjoy the warmth of a fire, as our ancestors have done for so many centuries.
Despite the fireplace changing in appearance over the years, they still have one very important purpose; to provide heat! Nowadays, a lot of fireplaces in older homes no longer work, instead adding a beautiful design feature to the home. However, many people still love the warm glow of a traditional fire, choosing to install modern log burners alongside classic fireside tools and accessories…
COMPANION SETS
COMPANION SETS
Fireside tools, commonly known as companion sets, were traditionally made from wrought iron and hand forged by a blacksmith. They were more of a necessity; a way to stoke the fire to keep the home warm, and to keep hot ash away from the floor. Now, not only are these tools highly practical, they can also be seen as a statement piece. From traditional iron companion sets to modern stainless-steel designs, our collection is extensive. Many of our designs feature traditional shapes, whilst others step more into the 21st Century with clean lines and modern finishes.
FIRE DOGS
FIRE DOGS
Andirons, better known as fire dogs, were an essential part of the fireplace before the introduction of fire baskets. Dating back to the 17th Century, fire dogs were traditionally made from clay, but materials and designs have changed over time, resulting in the more ornate designs we see today. Fire dogs work by placing logs between them, allowing air to circulate for better burning and reducing the amount of smoke produced. The introduction of the fire grate in the 18th Century removed the need for fire dogs but, due to their ornate designs, were kept for decorative reasons.
FIRE DOGS
Andirons, better known as fire dogs, were an essential part of the fireplace before the introduction of fire baskets. Dating back to the 17th Century, fire dogs were traditionally made from clay, but materials and designs have changed over time, resulting in the more ornate designs we see today. Fire dogs work by placing logs between them, allowing air to circulate for better burning and reducing the amount of smoke produced. The introduction of the fire grate in the 18th Century removed the need for fire dogs but, due to their ornate designs, were kept for decorative reasons.
COMPANION SETS
FIRE GUARDS
FIRE GUARDS
Traditionally, fire screens were used to help control the heat of the fire and to allow heat to be emitted more evenly around the room. These days, you are more likely to see a fire guard or screen being used to prevent sparks flying onto your carpet, or to stop logs rolling out of the fireplace. There are many types of fire guards or screens on offer, and the one you may require can depend on the type of open fire you have.
Whilst the main use of the fireplace and its accessories has evolved over the centuries, the hearth still remains the beaming heart of the home. Something which we’re very proud to honour with our extensive collection of fireplace tools and accessories. Click the button below to browse through our collections, including more modern versions of all the accessories mentioned above plus hundreds of other fireside essentials.
