If you’ve been holding out for a fireplace that is solid, good-looking, and locally made, without the exorbitant pricing of European models, this is the one to discuss. We’ve been keeping an eye on Forge Fires since word first started circulating in industry circles. Now that it’s officially available through Beauty Fires in Johannesburg, Cape Town, George, and online, it feels as though South African homeowners finally have a practical, well-constructed option that meets all the requirements.
Manufactured locally in Cape Town, the collection is made with high-quality steel, features reliable combustion technology, and is designed with an emphasis on long-term performance. The result is a clean-burning, durable fireplace that accommodates the way South Africans build and live.
With heat outputs ranging from 10kW in the smallest models to 20kW in the largest (the F120/I120), the range caters to everything from compact bedrooms to large-volume living areas. Both freestanding and insert options are available in landscape and portrait formats, with finishes that allow them to sit comfortably in modern and traditional interiors alike.
One of the most practical features of the Forge Fires insert range is its ability to be retrofitted into existing fireplace cavities. The dimensions are designed to fit many standard South African fireplace cavities and chimneys, making it easy to upgrade from an open hearth to a closed-combustion unit without major structural changes.
The flagship I120 and F120 models are the widest closed-combustion wood fireplaces currently available in the country. At 1200mm across, they offer a full view of the fire through a large glass window. An air curtain keeps the glass cleaner for longer, while the double combustion system helps reduce wood usage and extend burn time. Both top and bottom air inlets give users full control over heat levels and airflow, making the fireplace easy to regulate.
Inside, the units are lined with vermiculite panels and a firebrick base to retain heat and improve efficiency. A removable ashtray facilitates quick cleaning, and the thick steel grate enhances overall durability.
Forge Fires was developed with input from local installers and builders, ensuring the range performs well in real-world conditions. As Johnny, the production supervisor, puts it: “Every detail matters because these fireplaces need to perform every winter for years to come.”
Available through Beauty Fires showrooms and online, Forge Fires offers a practical, well-built option for South Africans looking to invest in lasting warmth and simple, effective design.
Visit beautyfires.com/products?brand=forge-fires for more.
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