The Toolbox: Fire power

Last update: November 24, 2009 - 6:01 PM

Energy-efficient fireplace

You can warm up in style, indoors or out, with the EcoSmart Fire Tower.

The contemporary fireplace was designed by Milanese architect and designer Celeste Dell-Anna and Simona Righi from Italian design studio Intentions. It burns denatured ethanol, a form of alcohol that creates no harmful emissions and doesn't require ventilation. Because it burns with 90 percent efficiency, the fireplace qualifies for the federal government's 30 percent energy-efficiency tax credit for biomass stoves.

The portable fireplace stands about 4 feet high, with an elevated flame set atop a base of black or white powder-coated steel.

Its suggested retail price starts at $3,700. Retailers nationwide can be found at www.ecosmartfire.com. The site lists Roam in Minneapolis as the only local retailer.

MARY BETH BRECKENRIDGE, AKRON BEACON JOURNAL

Fireplace burns a bit brighter

Napoleon's new fireplace combines fire and ice.

The LHD50 Limited Edition Fireplace incorporates Swarovski crystals in the ember bed, bringing a little bling to the blaze. The crystals are lighted from below by high-efficiency bulbs, which can be turned on even when the fire isn't burning behind them.

The direct-vent gas fireplace has a linear, contemporary design and is available in single- and double-sided styles. It sells for $11,000 to $15,000.

Napoleon dealers can be found on the company's website, www.napoleon fireplaces.com.

MARY BETH BRECKENRIDGE, AKRON BEACON JOURNAL

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