MNN - Mother Nature Network

Happy 2009! It must be freezing out because I can't stop thinking of ways to keep warm and snug without giving Mother Nature the cold shoulder. A couple days back, I wrote about Amenity Modern Organic Living's design- and earth-forward line of bedding, pillows, blankets, and the like. Now that we have something to snuggle with, all that's needed is something to snuggle around. For those without wood-burning fireplaces -- if you do use one, check out Java Logs -- and those with one but don't use it for environmental or other reasons, the EcoSmart Fire is the perfect solution.

 

These gorgeous, green hotties were conceived in Australia and can be used indoors or out, inserted into a traditional fireplace, or function as a freestanding unit in a number of configurations and designs. EcoSmart Fires are flue-less, efficient, and don't require a utility connection for fuel supply. Best of all, EcoSmart Fires burn on renewable, clean-burning denatured ethanol so you don't have to worry about emitting nasties and creating a stink while trying to keep warm. 

 

The core component of an EcoSmart Fire is one of four burner kits (starting at $2,300). The Designer Range is comprised of over a dozen chic, portable freestanding fireplace units that house the burner kits (see the Zeta and the Vision, below). Other options include the Grate Range (top) and the non-freestanding Renovator Range. Personally, I like 'em all.