Living Fires

Introducing Nordpeis Stoves: Scandinavian Design, Built for Modern Homes

At Living Fires, we believe a stove should do more than heat a room. It should enhance how you live in your home – visually, practically, and emotionally. That’s why we’re proud to offer Nordpeis stoves, a brand known for clean Scandinavian design, clever engineering, and a deep understanding of how people really use their living spaces.

Whether you’re renovating a Scottish cottage, upgrading a modern new-build, or looking for an efficient and stylish heating solution, Nordpeis brings together form, function, and reliability in a way that feels effortlessly modern.

Who Are Nordpeis?

Nordpeis is a leading Scandinavian stove manufacturer, with roots in Norway and a reputation across Europe for high-quality wood burning stoves and fires. Their designs are inspired by Nordic living, where warmth, simplicity, and connection to the home are central to everyday life.

Rather than focusing on trends, Nordpeis stoves are designed to be timeless. Clean lines, balanced proportions, and carefully considered details mean they sit comfortably in both contemporary interiors and more traditional homes.

Designed for Real Homes

One of the reasons Nordpeis works so well for Living Fires customers is their practical approach to design. These stoves aren’t just beautiful to look at, they’re made for how people actually heat and use their homes.

Key features you’ll find across the Nordpeis range include:

High efficiency and clean burning performance, helping you get the most heat from your fuel
Large glass viewing panels for an impressive flame picture
Flexible installation options, including corner, freestanding, and wall-mounted designs
Excellent heat output control, ideal for well-insulated modern homes

Many Nordpeis stoves are also designed with external air compatibility, making them suitable for newer, airtight properties, something we’re often asked about by customers across Scotland moving into newbuild developments.

Scandinavian Style, Scottish Living

Scandinavian stoves are a natural fit for Scottish homes. Nordpeis designs reflect a climate where warmth is essential, but so is light, space, and comfort.

Their stoves work beautifully in:

Open-plan living spaces
Extensions and garden rooms
Traditional stone cottages
Modern apartments and new builds

The understated design allows the fire to become a focal point without overpowering the room, perfect if you want a stove that feels considered, calm, and long-lasting.

Efficiency, Sustainability, and Peace of Mind

Nordpeis places strong emphasis on environmental performance. Their wood-burning stoves are designed to meet, and often exceed, current efficiency and emissions standards.

When paired with the right advice on fuel choice and correct installation, a Nordpeis stove can be an efficient, responsible way to heat your home while enjoying the comfort of a real flame.

At Living Fires, we guide you through the full process, from choosing the right stove for your space, to ensuring it’s installed safely and in line with regulations.

Why Choose Nordpeis from Living Fires?

Choosing a stove is as much about trust and guidance as it is about design. Our team has extensive experience helping customers select the right wood-burning stove in Scotland, taking into account heat requirements, property type, and lifestyle.

When you choose a stove through Living Fires, you benefit from:

Expert, honest advice tailored to your home
A carefully curated range of high-quality stoves
Professional installation and ongoing support
A showroom experience that helps you visualise your options with confidence

Discover Nordpeis at Living Fires

If you’re drawn to clean lines, thoughtful design, and reliable performance, Nordpeis is a brand well worth exploring. Visit our showroom or speak to our team to find out whether a Nordpeis stove could be the right fit for your home.

We’re here to help you choose a fire or stove that doesn’t just look good but feels right, now and for years to come.

The Best Cosy Spots Near Fife (and not far from Edinburgh) to Warm Up by a Fireplace

Imagine stepping inside after a chilly Scottish walk, the fire crackling beside you, warmth wrapping around you like a hug. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite cosy venues, including two extra special spots with Living Fires installations!

The Red Lion Inn, Culross

Step through the door of this historic gem and feel time slow down. With its painted ceilings and classic pub menu, The Red Lion Inn is beloved by locals and visitors alike. It was saved by the community and features a beautiful Living Fires stove installation. The perfect location for settling in with a hearty steak pie or sticky toffee pudding after exploring this picturesque, historical Royal Burgh.

Fire Station Creative, Dunfermline

This isn’t just a café; it’s an artful haven inside an Art Deco former fire station. With a roaring Firebelly Stove, installed by Living Fires, quietly radiating warmth in the café and creative energy in every corner, it’s a place to enjoy good food, live events, and local art.

The Dreel Tavern, Anstruther

Low stone walls, a grand open fire, and seafood platters make The Dreel Tavern feel like a snug retreat by the sea. It’s the perfect spot for warming up after a coastal walk, with local spirit and charm in equal measure.

The Ship Inn, Elie

Just steps from the beach, The Ship Inn exudes seaside cosiness. Authentic nautical decor, a log fire, and views out to the shore make this a favourite destination for both the soul and senses.

The Boar’s Head, Auchtermuchty

A country pub gem in a quaint village, The Boar’s Head pairs traditional pub fare with a snug fire-lit ambience. A true countryside classic that feels like home.

The Covenanter Hotel, Falkland

With its small, intimate bar and dog-friendly welcome, The Covenanter offers a charming blend of history and hospitality. The warmth goes beyond the fire and into its service and character.

St Andrews Brewing Co, St Andrews

Known locally as the “Brew Co,” this spot offers 18 beers on tap and tucked-away sofas in front of a crackling log fire, an ideal place to unwind after a stroll through St Andrews’ medieval streets.

What to Expect at Each Spot

Ambience: These venues all ooze rustic charm; think stone walls, wooden beams, and glowing fires that instantly soothe.
Food & Drink: These pubs and cafés all serve great grub ranging from locally sourced seafood and hearty pies to fresh brunch options and good brews.
Unique Features: From community-owned pubs, art galleries in converted fire stations, to historic inns with tales that echo through the stones, there’s a place fro everyone to enjoy a meal out at the fireside.

Specials Features Worth Mentioning

The Red Lion Inn serves ales named after Culross landmarks, adding local flavour to your pint. These are made by a small volunteer-run Community Brewery that has recently started in the upstairs of the Inn.
Fire Station Creative offers a great range of events from exhibition openings and fireside music sessions to family-friendly quiz nights, making it a great choice for a creative winter night out.
The Dreel Tavern really is a seafood-lover’s dream by the burn with warm fire and seasonal specials.

Why These Spots Matter

Each venue embodies the heart of winter cosiness in Scotland, and Living Fires is proud to be part of two. Whether through design, warmth, or community spirit, these places offer more than comfort; with focal fireplaces, they have made the perfect settings for gathering and good times over the chilly winter season.

How to Create a Scandinavian-Inspired Fireplace Look

There’s something effortlessly cosy about Scandinavian interiors. The calm, uncluttered space, natural textures, and glowing warmth make any home feel inviting even on the coldest Scottish winter days. And at the heart of all of these spaces? The fireplace.

At Living Fires, we help homeowners combine style and function with fires from our trusted suppliers like Stovax & Gazco, Nordpeis, and Esse, so your fireplace can be both beautiful and efficient.

Here’s how to achieve a Scandinavian-inspired look in your own home:

1. Neutral Colours

Scandinavian interiors thrive on soft, neutral palettes. Think whites, greys, and natural wood tones that create a sense of calm and space. A fireplace framed by pale walls or a light timber mantel instantly feels airy and inviting, letting the warmth of the fire become the focal point.

2. Minimalist Design

Less is more. Keep mantels uncluttered and surfaces clean, highlighting the stove or fireplace itself. Sleek designs from Onyx or Faber Fires work beautifully in these spaces, letting the fire take centre stage without competing with too many decorative elements. Simplistic mirrors with natural wood frames (or even frameless) over mantels work well to help reflect light around the room.

3. Hygge Elements

The Scandinavian concept of hygge is all about comfort and cosiness. Layer soft, neutral-coloured throws and cushions in natural fabrics, add textured rugs, and scatter plain white candles around the hearth for a warm, welcoming glow. Even simple additions like a woven basket for logs (or extra blankets if you have an electric or gas fireplace) or a chunky knit pouffe enhance the sense of homely tranquillity.

4. Functional Aesthetics

Scandinavian style blends form and function. Your fireplace should not only look good but also deliver efficient heat. Our suppliers offer fires that combine both sleek design with outstanding performance, so your home stays cosy without compromising style.

5. Inspirational Interiors

Look to Scandinavian homes for ideas: clean lines, muted colours, and layered textures. Whether it’s a minimalist white living room with a black stove as a striking contrast, or a natural timber space with soft grey accents, these interiors show how simplicity can create warmth and personality.

Bring Scandinavian Warmth to Your Home

With the right fire and styling, you can transform your fireplace into a serene, hygge-inspired haven. At Living Fires, we’re proud to offer a fantastic range of fires from our portfolio of suppliers, perfect for helping you choose a fire that suits your needs and creating a space that’s stylish, cosy, and entirely your own.

This winter, embrace simplicity, warmth, and the timeless elegance of Scandinavian design all from the comfort of your own home.

The Benefits of Installing a Stove in Your Home This Winter

Picture this: it’s a frosty evening, the wind is howling outside, and you step into your living room where a glowing stove is radiating warmth. The air feels dry and comfortable, there’s a gentle crackle of logs, and suddenly winter feels less like a season to endure and more like a season to find delight in.

That’s the difference a stove can make. At Living Fires, we work with trusted suppliers, including Arada, Mendip Stoves, Hunter Stoves, Esse, Clock, and many more, to help you create a home that’s not just warm but welcoming.

Here are some of the benefits you’ll enjoy when you install a stove this winter:

1. Energy Savings

When the cold sets in, heating bills can skyrocket. A well-chosen stove helps you cut costs by reducing your reliance on central heating, keeping the room you use most warm and comfortable. Brands like Burley Appliances and Charlton & Jenrick lead the way in energy efficiency, giving you powerful heat with lower fuel use. Over the course of a winter, those savings really add up.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

A stove isn’t just practical, it’s a statement. Whether you love the sleek, modern look of Onyx or Faber Fires, or the traditional charm of Clock and Dovre, a stove adds instant character to your home. It becomes a natural gathering point, the place where family and friends come together on chilly evenings. And beyond comfort, it can even enhance the value of your property.

3. Better Heat Distribution

If you’ve ever sat by an open fire and realised most of the warmth is disappearing up the chimney, you’ll appreciate the difference a stove makes. Modern fires, like those from Stovax & Gazco, are designed to distribute heat evenly and efficiently throughout your space. Many feature clever convection systems, so the whole room warms up faster and stays warmer for longer.

4. Eco-Friendly Features

A roaring fire doesn’t have to come with a guilty conscience. Many of our suppliers, including Hunter Stoves and Arada, design models that meet EcoDesign standards and are DEFRA-approved for smoke control areas. That means cleaner burns, fewer emissions, and a smaller carbon footprint all while you enjoy the comfort of a real flame.

5. Health Benefits

There’s nothing cosy about a damp, draughty room. By providing consistent, dry heat, stoves can reduce condensation and eliminate cold spots, creating a healthier, more comfortable living environment. In the long, wet Scottish winters, this makes a real difference, especially for families who want to feel snug through the season.

Find Your Perfect Stove

At Living Fires, we stock a wide range of stoves from suppliers. From modern statement pieces to timeless classics, we’ll help you find a stove that fits your home, your lifestyle, and your winter rituals.

So this year, instead of dreading the cold, imagine welcoming it with a stove that turns your home into the warm, glowing heart of winter.

How to Style Your Fireplace for a Cosy Winter in Scotland

There’s nothing quite like a Scottish winter. The evenings draw in early, the wind rattles the windows, and the thought of stepping outside feels far less appealing than staying tucked up on the sofa. That’s when your fireplace comes into its own, not just as a source of warmth, but as the heart of your home.

At Living Fires, we know that the right styling can make your fireplace more than functional it can transform it into a true winter sanctuary. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of yours this season:

Seasonal Décor

Bring the outside in with nature-inspired touches. Pinecones, evergreen sprigs, or even a rustic garland can instantly add warmth and charm. Pair them with soft candlelight or twinkling fairy lights interwoven or in a glass jar to create a magical glow that complements the fire itself. If you’ve chosen a sleek, modern stove like those from Onyx or Faber Fires, minimal accessories such as a tall floor vase featuring a slim, single branch can enhance the clean lines, while more traditional models from Arada or Esse look beautiful framed by seasonal greenery.

Soft Furnishings

Nothing says winter comfort quite like layers. Drape a chunky knit throw over the arm of a sofa, pile up cushions in rich textures, and roll out a thick rug to sink your toes into. This layering not only adds warmth but also draws attention to the fireplace as the room’s natural gathering place. A glowing fire paired with cosy furnishings creates a scene you’ll never want to leave.

Fireplace Accessories

Practical can still be beautiful. A woven log basket filled with neatly stacked wood, a set of brass tools, or a stylish fire screen adds character and completes the look. Brands like Clock and Hunter Stoves design models that look fantastic when paired with traditional accessories.

More modern stoves and fires like those from Barbas Bellfires or Leaf Stoves shine with sleek, minimalist styling. A steel log holder in a contemporary design is a great choice.

Lighting Tips

The secret to ambience lies in layers of light. Use soft, warm-toned lamps around the room to complement the natural glow of the fire. Floor lamps, candle-lit lanterns, or even a string of subtle LED fairy lights around the mantelpiece can all create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The goal is to make the fire the star, but let the surrounding light enhance its glow.

Practical Advice

Finally, think about how your furniture is arranged. Positioning seating so it faces the fireplace ensures it becomes the true focal point of the room. Whether you’re hosting guests for mulled wine and jigsaws (we hear it’s a trend!) or curling up with a good book, the fire should always be at the centre of your winter living space.

Make Your Fireplace the Heart of Winter

At Living Fires, we stock a wide range of stoves and fires from trusted suppliers including Arada, Esse, Stovax & Gazco, Nordpeis, and many more. Whatever your style, modern, traditional, or something in between, we can help you find the perfect fireplace to build your winter décor around.

This season, don’t just keep the cold out. Create a space that feels warm, welcoming, and perfectly styled for a Scottish winter.

Exploring Historical Fireplaces in Fife and Edinburgh

From grand castles to traditional cottages, fireplaces have long been at the heart of Scottish homes. More than just a source of heat, they were a symbol of comfort, status, and craftsmanship. In Fife and Edinburgh, you can still find extraordinary examples of historical fireplaces, each telling a story about the people who used them in their daily lives.

At Living Fires, we believe exploring these designs is a wonderful way to gather inspiration for your own home. Here are some of the most fascinating fireplaces you can discover nearby.

Unique Features of Historical Fireplaces

Scottish fireplaces have always reflected both practicality and artistry. In historic properties, you’ll often see:

Intricate stone carving from thistles and family crests to religious symbols.
Ornate timber mantels and surrounds, handcrafted in oak or walnut (sometimes a bit dark and imposing!).
Decorative tiles and ironwork. Victorian fireplaces, in particular, are known for their colourful tiles and detailed cast-iron inserts.
Grand proportions. In castles and stately homes, fireplaces were vast enough to roast whole animals, often serving as the hub of family and community life.

Where to See Them

If you’re looking for inspiration, there are several must-visit sites in Fife and Edinburgh:

Edinburgh Castle: Step into the Great Hall and you’ll find one of the most impressive stone fireplaces in Scotland, built to warm soldiers and royalty alike. Its scale and intricate detailing make it a highlight for history and design lovers.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh: The official Scottish residence of the monarch, Holyroodhouse is filled with fireplaces that balance regal elegance with everyday function.
Kellie Castle, Fife: A gem cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, Kellie Castle boasts beautifully preserved plasterwork and timber fireplaces, showing the craftsmanship of the 17th century.
Culross Palace, Fife: This striking ochre-coloured building offers a fascinating glimpse of 16th and 17th-century domestic life, including painted rooms with characterful stone fireplaces that once heated merchant families’ homes.
Abbot House, Dunfermline: The oldest surviving house in Dunfermline, Abbot House contains charming examples of early Scottish fireplaces that reflect both function and rustic beauty.

The Cultural Significance of Fireplaces in Scotland

Fireplaces were more than a source of heat, they were the heart of the household. Families gathered around them to share food, warmth, and stories. In castles, fireplaces symbolised power and wealth, often placed in the grandest rooms as a display of status.

As Scottish homes evolved, so too did fireplaces: from vast medieval hearths to the elegant Georgian and Victorian surrounds we admire today. Each style reveals something about the era’s values, whether it was function, fashion, or innovation.

Finding Inspiration for Your Own Home

Exploring historic fireplaces in Fife and Edinburgh is not only a great day out, but also a way to spark ideas for your own space. While we don’t need towering stone hearths anymore, many of the design principles, natural materials, craftsmanship, and statement-making presence, are still just as relevant.

At Living Fires, our showrooms in Edinburgh and Dunfermline showcase a wide range of stoves and fireplaces, from classic designs inspired by tradition to sleek modern models from trusted suppliers like Stovax & Gazco, Morso, and Barbas Bellfires. Visiting us means you can see today’s craftsmanship up close, just as you would in a castle or stately home.

Visit, Explore, and Imagine

Whether you’re strolling through the halls of Edinburgh Castle or stepping into a restored Fife manor, pay attention to the fireplaces. Notice the detail, the scale, and the role they once played in daily life. Then, imagine how you might bring a touch of that history and ambience into your own home.

We’d love to welcome you to our showrooms in Dunfermline or Edinburgh, where you can explore modern fireplaces and stoves in person, and find a design that feels just as timeless.

How to Burn Wood Responsibly: A Guide to Sustainable Heating

Wood-burning stoves remain one of the most popular and atmospheric ways to heat a home in Scotland. But with air quality and environmental standards becoming more important, burning wood responsibly is essential, both for efficiency and for sustainability. At Living Fires, we work with leading manufacturers such as Morso, Stovax & Gazco, Arada, and Hunter Stoves, all of whom design modern appliances to meet today’s eco-standards. Here’s our guide to getting the very best from your stove, while staying mindful of the environment.

**Hunter Stoves – Herald 5 Eco, double door**

Choosing the Right Wood

The wood you burn makes a huge difference to performance. Always look for:

Seasoned or kiln-dried logs with a moisture content below 20%. Wet wood produces more smoke, tar, and harmful particulates.
Locally sourced timber, which reduces transport emissions and supports the local economy.
Hardwoods such as ash, oak, or beech, which burn longer and hotter than softwoods.

Storing Your Fuel Correctly

Even the best logs won’t burn well if they’re stored badly.

Keep logs in a well-ventilated store, ideally off the ground to prevent damp rising.
Protect your fuel from rain with a roof or cover, while leaving the sides open for airflow.
Stack your wood loosely rather than tightly, so air can circulate.

A simple log store in your garden can make all the difference, ensuring your fuel is always ready to go.

Efficient Burning Techniques

Modern stoves from brands like Barbas Bellfires, Nordpeis, and Arada are designed to be highly efficient, but your burning technique matters too.

Always use small kindling to get the fire started quickly, try to avoid excessive use of paper, which creates ash and sparks.
Once lit, add larger logs gradually, allowing air to circulate.
Don’t overload the stove; it reduces efficiency and increases smoke.
Adjust the air vents to maintain healthy flames.

The cleaner the burn, the more heat you’ll feel in your room and the less pollution is released into the air.

Staying Legally Compliant in Scotland

Air quality is a priority in Scotland, and regulations exist to ensure stoves and fuel meet environmental standards.

From 2022, the sale of wet wood and traditional house coal has been restricted; only dry, ready-to-burn fuel is permitted.
Always choose Ecodesign Ready stoves, such as those by Stovax & Gazco or Hunter Stoves, which meet the latest efficiency and emission requirements.
If you live in or near a Smoke Control Area, make sure your stove and fuel comply with local rules.

Living Fires can guide you through the right stove options to ensure your home is warm, stylish, and environmentally responsible.

Ready to Burn Smarter?

By choosing the right stove, fuel, and techniques, you’ll not only enjoy a warmer home but also reduce your environmental impact. At Living Fires, we supply and install a wide range of eco-friendly stoves and fires from trusted brands including Morso, Stovax & Gazco, Arada, and more.

Visit our Edinburgh or Dunfermline showrooms to see the collection for yourself — and let us help you find the perfect solution for efficient, sustainable heating.

Fireplace and Stove Trends for Autumn/Winter 2025: What’s Hot Right Now

When the weather turns, there’s nothing quite like the draw of a glowing fire. But your fireplace or stove can do more than just keep you warm, it can elevate the look and feel of your whole space. Whether you’re planning a full interior refresh or just want to keep your setup feeling current, here’s what’s trending in the world of fires and stoves for Autumn/Winter 2025.

Design Trends: Sleek, Seamless, and Statement-Making

Minimalist is still going strong, and frameless fireplaces are leading the way. These clean, contemporary designs give the illusion of flame floating within the wall. All the drama, and zero fuss.

Two-sided and three-sided fires are also on the rise, especially in open-plan spaces where one fire can be enjoyed from multiple angles. Perfect for living rooms where you want to create different areas, dining spaces, or even open-plan kitchen/living hybrid rooms.

Eco-conscious? You’re in good company. Customers are continuing to choose stoves and fires that offer high efficiency with lower emissions, especially wood burners that meet DEFRA and Ecodesign standards.

Materials: Tactile and Natural

Natural textures are continuing to make a big impression. Reclaimed wood surrounds, brushed metal trims, and slate hearths are popular for their timeless look and ability to balance rustic charm with modern style. These finishes not only ground the fire visually but also bring warmth and tactility to the space, even when the fire’s off.

Don’t be afraid to mix materials either. Pairing something industrial like black steel with a neutral limestone, adding natural warmth and texture, is bang on trend.

Tech Innovations: Fire at Your Fingertips

Smart fireplaces are becoming more accessible than ever. Remote control, app integration, and even voice activation are now available from top brands, making it easier to control your fire’s heat and flame effect from the sofa (or even before you’ve left work).

Some electric models now come with customisable flame colours and realistic soundscapes, think crackles and embers on demand. Style and substance, with zero smoke.

Colours: Bold, Earthy, and Versatile

The tones we’re seeing this season are deep and grounding – olive green, soft beige, smoky greys and plenty of matte black. These rich hues complement the flicker of the fire while creating a calm and contemporary backdrop.

Colour isn’t just for walls either. Coloured stoves and tiled surrounds in statement tones are giving fireplaces more personality and individuality.

Function First: Efficient, Low-Maintenance Fires

As homes get smarter and more efficient, so do fires. Customers want models that don’t just look the part, they need to perform too.

High-efficiency wood burners, DEFRA-exempt stoves, and low-maintenance electric models are all in demand this year. Clean lines, less upkeep, and serious heat output.

At Living Fires, we work with trusted suppliers across the UK and Europe to bring you the very best in modern design, technology and performance. Whatever your space, we’ll help you find a fire or stove that’s right for you and make sure it’s styled to be the flames you desire.

A Beginner’s Guide to Wood-Burning Stoves: What You Need to Know

There’s something timeless about the glow and crackle of a real wood-burning stove. Whether you’re upgrading your living space or exploring lower-cost, lower-impact heating, a stove can become the heart of your home while being both stylish and practical.

But if you’re new to the world of wood burners, it’s natural to have questions. Here’s our straightforward guide to help you feel confident, informed and ready to make the most of your stove.

How Do Wood-Burning Stoves Work?

Wood-burning stoves are more efficient than open fires, thanks to clever air control and design.

Inside the stove, combustion happens in a sealed firebox. Air vents (usually at the top and bottom) let you control how much oxygen feeds the fire. The more air the livelier the burn; less air means a slower, longer-lasting heat. Many modern stoves use cleanburn or tertiary air systems, which help burn off more gases, making them cleaner and more efficient.

If you choose a DEFRA-exempt model, it’s also approved for use in smoke control areas (more on that below).

How to Start and Maintain a Fire (Without the Stress)

Lighting a stove is a simple skill once you get the hang of it. Here’s a no-fuss method:

1. Open the air vents fully – your stove needs plenty of oxygen to get going.

2. Place kindling in a criss-cross shape with a natural firelighter underneath (avoid firelighters with paraffin if possible).

3. Add one or two small logs on top – don’t overload it at this stage.

4. Light the firelighter, close the door, and watch it catch.

5. Once the fire’s well established, add more logs gradually and adjust the vents to control the burn.

Keep it burning cleanly, no smouldering or slumbering fires, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidance.

Stove Maintenance Basics

Looking after your stove doesn’t take long but makes all the difference in performance and longevity.

Glass cleaning: If the glass blackens, let it cool, then use stove glass cleaner or a damp cloth dipped in wood ash. Regular burning of well-seasoned wood also helps prevent soot build-up.

Ash removal: Empty the ash pan regularly (when the stove is cool), but leave a thin layer in the base – it helps insulate and support the fire.

Chimney sweeping: Book a professional sweep at least once a year, ideally before winter. If you’re a heavy stove user, you might need a mid-season clean too.

Fuel Tips: Get the Wood Right

What you burn matters.

Use seasoned hardwood like ash, oak or beech, with a moisture content below 20%. Look for the Woodsure ‘Ready to Burn’ logo.

Avoid softwoods (like pine) or unseasoned ‘green’ wood. They burn too fast, create more soot, and can damage your flue.

Store it well, ideally in a dry, ventilated log store, off the ground and protected from rain. If you’re stacking indoors, keep a small supply nearby, but don’t bring in loads at once (moisture from the house can seep in).

Legal Guidelines in Scotland

Wood-burning stoves are legal in Scotland, but there are some key things to know:

Many towns and cities are designated Smoke Control Areas.
If you live in one of these areas, you can only burn authorised fuels or use a DEFRA-exempt stovedesigned to emit minimal smoke.
You can check if you’re in a Smoke Control Area via your local council or the Scottish Government website.

Also, if you’re installing a new stove, it must comply with Ecodesign regulations all the stoves we supply meet (or exceed) these standards.

Thinking About Getting One?

Whether you’re drawn to the look, the feel or the eco-friendly credentials of a stove, we’re here to help you choose the right one and make sure it works for your space, lifestyle, and local regulations.

Pop into one of our showrooms or give us a call if you’d like a hand getting started.

Colour Schemes and Design Tips to Complement Your Fireplace

Simple ideas to make your fire the star of the room all year round.

A fireplace is more than just a heat source; it’s a natural focal point. Whether you’ve chosen a classic stove or a sleek, modern gas fire, how you style the space around it can make all the difference. Here are some straightforward, effective ways to make your fire stand out for all the right reasons.

Choosing Paint Colours That Work With Your Fireplace

Want your fireplace to pop? It’s all about contrast.

If you’ve got a dark fire surround such as black cast iron or deep slate, go for lighter walls to help it stand out. Crisp whites, soft greys, or even magnolia (making a big comeback in 2025 interior trends!) will do the trick. However, if your fire surround is pale ( for instance limestone or micro marble), darker and richer wall colours will frame it beautifully.

Prefer a neutral palette? Add depth by experimenting with different finishes. We like matte on the walls and eggshell on trims, it keeps things interesting without going bold.

Create an Accent Wall Around the Fireplace

If you’re up for something a bit braver, an accent wall can elevate the whole room. Textured paints, bold colour blocks, or wallpaper behind the fire can draw the eye and make the space feel designed, even if everything else is simple.

Some of our favourite looks:

• Soft botanical wallpapers paired with traditional stoves

• Charcoal paint behind a white fireplace for drama

• Terracotta tones for a warm, cosy vibe year-round

If you’re going for wallpaper, make sure it’s heat-resistant and not too close to the fire, safety first!

Furniture Placement: Don’t Block the View

The golden rule? Let your fire breathe.

Try to place seating so it frames the fireplace, not competes with it. Position armchairs at angles to draw attention inward, or anchor your sofa opposite the fire with a rug and coffee table in between.

Make sure there’s enough space to walk past the fire comfortably, especially if you’ve got a stove that needs refuelling.

Styling for the Seasons (and Beyond)

A few easy swaps can take your fireplace from a winter centrepiece to summer focal point.

Winter: Think log baskets, lanterns, chunky throws, and natural textures.

Spring/Summer: Try a large mirror or statement artwork above the mantel, vases with fresh or dried flowers, and light, airy accessories like ceramics or coastal-style ornaments.

Even when your fire’s off, the surround can still feel intentional. A summer wreath on the chimney breast, or a group of candles in the hearth, keeps the space feeling warm just in a different way.

Light It Right

Lighting can really enhance your fireplace setup, especially in the evenings and dark Scottish winter months.

• Wall lights on either side of the chimney breast add a soft glow and help balance the layout.

• Picture lights above a mantelpiece are great if you’ve styled with art.

• Uplights at the base of the chimney breast or behind a freestanding stove can add atmosphere without overpowering the fire itself.

And don’t forget natural light. If your fire’s in a darker corner, mirrors and soft furnishings in lighter colours can help bounce daylight around the room.

You don’t need to be an interior designer to make your fireplace look good. A few well-chosen colours, some clever styling, and the right lighting can transform your living space and show off your fire at its best, lit or unlit.

Thinking about upgrading your fireplace? We’re happy to help you find a style that fits your home perfectly. Pop into one of our showrooms or check out our website for inspiration.