Designs for Fires

04/08/2026

How much do you really know about your existing fireplace?

If you're planning to renovate your fireplace, replace an old appliance or redesign your living space, there's far more to consider than choosing a new fire.

Hidden behind the wall are the details that determine what is possible:
✔ Existing chimney construction
✔ Flue systems
✔ Non-combustible materials
✔ Ventilation and clearances
✔ Structural considerations

These hidden elements can affect your design, product selection, installation costs and even Building Code compliance.

That's why I created this free Design Library Guide.

Drawing on more than 20 years of fireplace design experience, it explains what every homeowner, architect and builder should understand before starting a fireplace renovation.

Inside the guide you'll find:
• Practical design advice
• Before and after renovation examples
• Technical diagrams explained in plain English
• Tips to help you avoid costly mistakes

Beautiful fireplaces don't happen by chance—they're the result of thoughtful design and informed decisions.

📖 Read the free guide here:
https://www.designsforfires.com/design-library//fireplace-design-nz-existing-fireplaces-guide-part-1

26/07/2026

Choosing a fireplace screen isn't just about safety—it's also an important design decision.

The right fireplace screen protects your home while enhancing the look of your fireplace. Whether you prefer clean architectural lines, traditional brass detailing or bespoke steel designs, a well-chosen screen can become an integral part of the room.

Our latest blog explores:
✔ Modern and traditional fireplace screen styles
✔ Spark protection and safety
✔ Materials and finishes
✔ Choosing the correct size
✔ Design ideas for both contemporary and classic homes

If you're planning a new fireplace or updating an existing one, this guide will help you select a screen that's both practical and beautiful.

Read the full guide here:
https://www.designsforfires.com/blog/fireplace-screens-nz

At Designs for Fires, we provide independent fireplace design, product selection and technical advice throughout New Zealand. Whether you're renovating, building new or restoring an existing fireplace, we're here to help.

19/07/2026

Where is the best place to put a fireplace in your home?

A well-designed fireplace should do more than heat a room—it should become a natural part of how you live in the space.

The right location can improve:
• Heat distribution
• Furniture layout
• Views and focal points
• Everyday comfort
• The overall design of your home

Whether you're building new or renovating, choosing the right position before selecting the fireplace can save costly changes later.

Read our latest guide and discover the key design principles behind successful fireplace placement.

👉 https://www.designsforfires.com/blog/where-is-the-best-place-to-put-a-fireplace-in-your-home

13/07/2026

Non-combustible doesn’t always mean heat resistant. 🔥

When choosing cladding for a fireplace, it’s easy to assume that a material described as non-combustible is automatically suitable for use around the fire.

But it isn’t that simple.

Heat can transfer through fireplace cladding to the structure behind it, and the complete construction system needs to be considered — including the substrate, fixings, jointing compounds and finishes, along with clearances, ventilation requirements and the fireplace manufacturer’s installation instructions.

There is also an important difference between materials that are fire-rated, non-combustible and heat resistant.

Choosing fireplace cladding is about more than creating the right look. Understanding how the materials and construction work together is essential for a safe, durable and compliant fireplace installation.

Read my guide to choosing fireplace cladding and the important considerations before making your selection:

👉 https://www.designsforfires.com/blog/how-to-choose-fireplace-cladding

08/07/2026

From construction to the first fire 🔥

This outdoor room is now complete with a Jetmaster Alfresco 1050 open wood fireplace.

The large-format fireplace creates a strong focal point for the room and helps turn the outdoor area into a space that can be enjoyed throughout more of the year.

These photos show the project progressing through the build to the finished fireplace — a great example of why considering the fireplace early in the design and construction process is so important.

From selecting the right fireplace and determining its position and proportions, through to the surrounding structure, flue and installation details, good planning helps create a result that works both visually and technically.

If you’re planning a new fireplace project, Designs for Fires provides independent fireplace design, product selection and technical advice throughout New Zealand.

www.designsforfires.com

21/06/2026

Thinking about installing a wood fireplace?

Not all fireplaces are the same, and choosing the right one can make a huge difference to your home's comfort, efficiency and design.

I've just published a comprehensive guide covering:

🔥 Clean Air wood fireplaces explained
🏡 New builds and renovations
🧱 Retrofitting into existing chimneys
🌿 Passive and Homestar homes
📋 Council compliance
🔥 Leading brands including Escea, Stovax, Stûv, Warmington, VisionLINE, Firenzo and Metro

As an independent fireplace consultant, my role is to recommend the fireplace that's best suited to your home—not simply one particular manufacturer.

If you're planning a renovation or building a new home, this guide is a great place to start.

👉 Read the full article here:
https://www.designsforfires.com/blog/clean-air-wood-fireplaces-nz-retrofit-new-build-amp-fireplace-design-designs-for-fires

If you're unsure which fireplace is right for your project, feel free to get in touch.

www.designsforfires.com

17/06/2026

17/06/2026

🔥 From an idea to a thriving business.

Here are a few moments from my first year with Designs for Fires. Thank you for being part of the journey.

Here's to year two. 🔥

13/06/2026

❄️ Winter is here, and now is the time we really rely on our fireplaces to keep our homes warm and comfortable.

But is your fireplace performing the way it should?

If your fire is difficult to light, doesn't seem to produce enough heat, smokes excessively, burns through wood too quickly, or simply isn't creating the warmth you expected, it may not be operating at its full potential.

Many homeowners live with fireplace issues for years, assuming that's just how their fire performs. In reality, there are often practical solutions that can significantly improve efficiency, heat output, safety, and overall enjoyment.

At Designs for Fires, I provide independent fireplace advice, troubleshooting, and design solutions for wood, gas, and electric fireplaces. Whether you're experiencing performance issues, considering an upgrade, or planning a new installation, I can help identify the best solution for your home.

🔥 Fireplace not performing as expected?
🔥 Thinking about replacing an older fireplace?
🔥 Unsure if your current setup is compliant or operating efficiently?

Let's talk.

📍 Auckland & Northland
💻 NZ-wide consultation available

www.designsforfires.com