Fire without the flue: How Decoflame is redefining fireplace design

Few architectural features create atmosphere quite like a real flame. Yet for many contemporary homes, apartments and commercial spaces, incorporating a traditional fireplace simply isn’t practical. Chimneys consume valuable space, gas connections aren’t always available and flue systems can compromise architectural intent.

It’s this shift that led The Fireplace to introduce Decoflame fireplaces to the New Zealand market. Designed and manufactured in Denmark, Decoflame reflects the Scandinavian philosophy that technology should quietly enhance architecture rather than dominate it.

“At The Fireplace, we are continually searching for products that combine exceptional design, innovation and performance. Decoflame stood out because it delivers genuine flame, sophisticated Danish design and industry-leading safety technology in a package that offers enormous flexibility for architects, designers and homeowners,” shares Geoff Dunn.

Rather than simply adding another fireplace to its portfolio, The Fireplace saw Decoflame as a new way of thinking about fire within architecture. Renowned for its minimalist design and engineering innovation, Decoflame offers a new category of fireplace that combines genuine flames with installation freedom. Powered by advanced BEV (burning ethanol vapour) technology, the collection delivers the ambience of a real fire without the need for a chimney flue or gas connection.

For architects and designers, it creates entirely new possibilities for incorporating real fire into projects.

Behind the BEV technology: A different approach to real flame

Bioethanol fireplaces have existed for some time. However, unlike conventional bioethanol fireplaces, Decoflame features patented BEV technology which converts the fuel into vapour before ignition. The result is a highly controlled flame, advanced electronic safety monitoring and fully automatic operation, without exposing liquid fuel to the flame.

“A simple way to think about it is like a gas appliance,” explains Geoff. “The flame is created from ethanol vapour rather than burning exposed liquid fuel.”

That distinction is significant. It enables sophisticated safety monitoring and automatic operation while supporting the installation flexibility that allows architects and designers to incorporate a genuine flame in places where a traditional fireplace simply wouldn’t be possible.

Designing without constraint

One of Decoflame’s greatest strengths is its design flexibility.

With no flue or gas connection required, the fireplaces can be integrated into locations where traditional fireplaces simply cannot go. Designers can create single-sided, corner, room-divider and island-style installations while maintaining architectural intent.

“The technology enables designers to focus on the visual impact of the flame rather than the constraints of venting systems.”

This flexibility is particularly valuable in modern homes, luxury apartments, hospitality projects and commercial developments. Installation is simple, and with no smoke, soot or ash, maintenance requirements are reduced.

Introducing Decoflame’s F2, F3 and F6 fireplace designs

Recognising that every project presents different design challenges, The Fireplace has introduced an extensive range, all featuring the same BEV technology, to suit different architectural applications.

The compact F2 is designed for apartments, smaller living spaces, bedrooms, hotel suites and projects where a compact architectural feature is desired.

The F3 is a versatile mid-sized solution suited to most residential living areas, particularly well-suited to renovations and new-build homes seeking a balanced combination of flame presence and installation flexibility.

For larger residences, hospitality venues and commercial environments, the F6 delivers a dramatic focal point that anchors the space while maintaining the same installation flexibility.

Then there is the LogicWood, the latest innovation from Decoflame. Featuring the BEV F6 technology and life-like log presentation to create an authentic real-flame experience: a true interpretation of fire.

Together, these fireplaces provide a progression of sizes and flame design, allowing The Fireplace to offer solutions ranging from compact feature fireplaces through to dramatic statement installations.

Designing for the way we live

As interiors continue to evolve, prioritising flexibility and efficient use of space, the products and details within them must follow the same direction.

By combining Danish design, advanced BEV technology and installation flexibility, Decoflame provides New Zealand architects, designers and homeowners with a new opportunity.

Decoflame removes many of the traditional constraints that have shaped fireplace design for generations. Instead of designing around the fireplace, architects are free to place real flame wherever it best enhances the architecture. The result is greater creative freedom and spaces that are warmer, more inviting and unmistakably memorable.

Explore the Decoflame range from The Fireplace on ArchiPro and find architects and designers to work with you on your next project.