Forrest Estate
There ' s a comforting family feel about the tasting room . A perfectly constructed open fire roared as we heard stories behind the architecture and design from Beth Forrest . The style of this fire is reflective of the surrounding climate and ranges , bringing the outdoors in . Earthy tones blend seamlessly with the ' kiwi ' industrial chic style of the tasting room complete with gorgeous leather chairs . The curve of the mantel and surround mimics the stone wall at the front entrance , surrounding the cellar door and winery .
Avril ’ s thoughts :
Another example of a local stone fireplace in a varying design with addition of a chunky wooden mantelpiece . Stone can be sourced locally , but the stone-laying is an art and therefore best left to professionals . Alternatively , you can buy in pre-cut schist sheets that are produced in uniform sizes to clad the fireplace . The vintage deco armchairs , table and cow hide placed in front of the roaring fire suit the situation perfectly .
Forrest Wines | Blicks Road , Renwick Open Daily 10am – 4.30pm
Allan Scott Cellar Door
It was important to the Scott family for diners to be able to enjoy the beauty of the courtyard dining space , all year round . This open fire provides warmth and ambience on cold crisp winter days .
Avril ’ s thoughts :
This plastered rustic fireplace lends itself to the exterior covered dining area situation . Due to being made to client ’ s requirements , this look could be adapted for an internal room situation and reduced in size . The rustic look could be softened with furnishings . Use lovely lush , loose-covered linen sofas and chairs , patterned and coloured cushions and throws .
Twelve Tress Vineyard Restaurant | Jacksons Road Open Daily 9am – 4.30pm
The Store
Winter visitors to the iconic coastal venue , The Store , are treated to a striking fireplace experience that can ’ t be missed . The fireplace was designed by Sue Macfarlane and her cousin , Marlborough Architect , Jimma Dillon . Sue is the mother of Sank Macfarlane , who took over ownership of the The Store from his parents . A number of steel rods are positioned from floor to ceiling and wrapped horizontally at various places to give it its shape . The cladding is constructed of chicken wire and plaster to give it the lovely rustic feel .
Avril ’ s thoughts :
This impressive two-sided fireplace is the focal point of the building joining the two rooms together and giving a large social gathering space . The use of wooden railway sleepers around the mantle and hearth gives the fireplace a grounding and definition . The ceiling generally required to carry off the depth and height of a fireplace such as this needs to be high to showcase its form and balance . To furnish a room with such an impressive feature , use timber tables and chairs . Add comfy large leather armchairs , cow hides , kilim or Persian rugs and large rustic pots or urns .
The Store | State Highway 1 , Kekerengu Open Daily 8.30am – 4.30pm
Plan your lighting designs around your fireplaces . Fit both up- and down-lights over the fireplace frontages to showcase the wonderful products and craftsmanship that each fireplace is made of . To create a cozy ambient light , put these lights on an individual switch that is dimmable and turn all other lighting off . Place large standard lamps either side of the fireplace or on side tables to also create a soft restful light .