Burning Bright for 20 Years: EcoSmart Fire's Design Evolution
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As we reflect on our journey, it's clear that our dedication to pushing the boundaries of fireplace design has been a constant driving force. Let's take a look at where it all began in 2004, and how our initial vision laid the foundation for the brand’s success.
2004
In 2004, we officially introduced our ground-breaking concept to the world. Designed in Sydney, Australia by The Fire Company, we emerged as an innovative solution at the forefront of the fireplace industry. The launch of EcoSmart Fire marked a significant milestone, heralding the arrival of a unique and environmentally friendly style of open fireplace.
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From Local Innovation to Global Impact
With our debut in the Australian market, we captured the attention of homeowners, architects, and designers alike. Our sleek design, eco-friendly fuel source, and versatility quickly garnered widespread acclaim. Soon after its introduction, EcoSmart Fire began making waves on the global stage, rapidly expanding its presence across residential, commercial, and hospitality developments worldwide.
Within the first two years of its launch, The Fire Company achieved remarkable success in international markets. Our appeal transcended geographical boundaries, and our innovative products found homes in diverse environments spanning North America, South America, Europe, Oceania, the Middle East, and Asia. This unprecedented rate of growth underscored the universal appeal and enduring relevance of our revolutionary approach to fireplace design.
2008
The Birth of Stix
2008 witnessed a pivotal collaboration taking root that would result in a product that would become a staplepiece of our collection. Central to this creative endeavor was Hiroshi Tsunoda, a Barcelona-based designer known for his commitment to creating practical, memorable designs that do not compromise on aesthetics or environmental integrity.
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The partnership between The Fire Company and Tsunoda was sparked by a mutual passion for eco-friendly innovation. Inspired by our bioethanol-fueled fireplaces, Tsunoda conceived Stix - a modern reinterpretation of the campfire. This contemporary design combined the allure of traditional fire with sleek, modern aesthetics, featuring stainless steel sticks arranged around an environmentally friendly burner.
This collaboration highlighted the potential of combining traditional elements with modern design to create something truly distinctive. Stix remains a celebrated example of innovative, environmentally responsible product design, reflecting a deep understanding of the importance of sustainable, aesthetically pleasing solutions in today’s market.
2012
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A New Home in a Design Haven
In 2012, we made a pivotal move to further establish its leadership in the design and fireplace industry by relocating to Alexandria, Sydney’s vibrant design hub. This new chapter reflected our brand’s growth and its dedication to innovation, design, and environmental sustainability. The creation of a purpose-built design studio and showroom embodied EcoSmart Fire’s commitment to excellence and served as a testament to our evolving vision.
The 435 sqm space was designed by John Dimopoulos of Geoform Design Architects, known for his work on the iconic (now discontinued) freestanding fire Zeta for EcoSmart Fire. This new headquarters was more than just an office; it was a strategic statement for EcoSmart Fire’s role in the design world. The showroom’s design was tailored to inspire and educate both industry professionals and consumers, showcasing EcoSmart Fires in an environment that reflected our brand’s core messages of lifestyle and warmth.
The showroom featured a dramatic glazed sawtooth roof, which Dimopoulos cleverly utilised to balance natural brightness with an ambient glow. High-ceiling angled folded steel plates echoed the flickering flames of EcoSmart Fires, integrating the products into the architectural design of the space. This innovative approach created a dynamic environment that highlighted the transformative potential of our EcoSmart Fires.
Complemented by a 2.7-tonne steel entrance desk, concertina walls for display zones, and timber flooring and cabinetry, the showroom was a masterpiece. It not only highlighted our brand’s sleek and elegant products but also reflected the attention to detail and dedication to creating inspiring environments.
2013
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The Legacy of Brown Jordan Fires
In 2013, EcoSmart Fire was granted the license by Brown Jordan to develop a distinctive line of fire tables and fire pits under the name "Brown Jordan Fires," utilising EcoSmart's advanced bioethanol technology. This partnership seamlessly integrated our cutting-edge fire design solutions with Brown Jordan’s renowned, high-quality casual furniture, resulting in a harmonious blend of functionality and design elegance. Designed to complement Brown Jordan’s timeless furnishings, these fire features became a focal point for gatherings, embodying a shared commitment to design integrity and innovation.
The Brown Jordan Fires collection, celebrated for its exceptional design and performance, stands as a notable chapter in the history of both brands. Its success demonstrated the power of collaborative innovation in enhancing luxury outdoor living and remains a significant milestone in our journey.
2014 - 2019
A Journey of Innovation & Expansion
From 2014 to 2019, we underwent significant expansion and strategic advancements that bolstered our global presence and operational capabilities. The opening of key facilities like the Hangzhou Sales Office and Central Warehouse in 2014 marked a leap towards globalisation, enhancing production and distribution processes. This period also saw the introduction of innovative technologies such as Fluid™ Concrete, showcasing our brand's commitment to quality and sustainability.
In 2015, recognising the potential in versatile material applications, we expanded our manufacturing footprint, ensuring that solutions remained both innovative and efficient. The rebranding of our parent company to MAD Design Group in 2016 reflected a broader business vision, pushing the company to become a leader in design and manufacturing. This evolution continued with the establishment of a new European head office in Luxembourg in 2018, aligning the company closer to its European clients and partners.
Throughout these years, we’ve remained focused on innovation, customisation, and quality, as exemplified by our commitment to OEM & ODM business opportunities, which showcased our versatility and dedication to delivering tailored solutions.
2020 - Present
Navigating New Challenges
The onset of the global pandemic in 2020 posed unprecedented challenges for businesses worldwide, and EcoSmart Fire was no exception. In response to the ongoing changing market dynamics, we made the strategic decision to close our physical showroom and fully embrace the digital landscape. This shift not only ensured the safety of our staff and customers but also aligned with changing consumer trends towards the increased popularity and convenience of online shopping.
We enhanced our e-commerce platforms, optimised our customer service capabilities, and expanded our network of retailers. This pivot was not just about survival but about thriving in a new retail environment, ensuring that our innovative products remained accessible and relevant.
Despite the challenges, we persevered and continued to innovate, expanding our product offerings in 2023, and launching a collection of 6 new, freestanding fire tables. The launch was a testament to our commitment to design excellence and sustainability, principles that have guided us from the start.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, EcoSmart Fire & MAD Design Group are committed to further solidifying their position as leaders in design and innovation for the residential, commercial, and hospitality markets. Our focus will be on expanding our OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) partnerships and exploring new technologies to enhance our product offerings.
Sustainability remains at the heart of our mission. We will continue to innovate with eco-friendly fuel alternatives and energy-efficient designs, ensuring that our products contribute to a greener future. Our goal is to not only meet but anticipate the needs of our customers, providing solutions that are both beautiful and sustainable.
By staying true to our core values and embracing new opportunities, we are excited to shape the future of design and innovation in the industry. Together, with our partners and customers, we will continue to create inspiring spaces where people can connect and thrive.