Architizer News
The Contemporary Hearth by Ortal
February 15, 2012
Frank Lloyd Wright famously emphasized the importance of a centrally placed fireplace in the home. Radiating warmth, the hearth was the architectural and spiritual focus of the home, grounding it and becoming a salient feature of Wright’s architectural practice and philosophy. In his time, Wright was an innovative pioneer of early natural heating and air circulation solutions, but much has changed since the American architect revolutionized the industry with his patented Prairie Style.
The fireplace, for one, has undergone a renaissance. Largely dormant after the advent of efficient and concealed gas and electric heating, the primitive, flickering flame has once again found renewed context in the modern home. Take a look at some of these sleek, modern fireplaces from Ortal that are once again restoring the hearth to its original place as the heart of the home. More after the jump.
Ortal’s Stand Alone models are a modern spin on the wood-burning stove, bringing a cabin classic effortlessly into even the most modern homes with post-industrial concrete walls and however many mid-century design leather chairs one could wish to own.
The Space Creator models do their category justice, using narrow spaces within walls to heat, illuminate and accent the home.

The Clear Tunnel model likewise embeds itself within the house, appearing, as in this photo, much like a slick, high-definition Yule Log.
Other Clear models from Ortal fit snugly in the corner of a room, allowing for in-built, surrounding seating areas that pay homage to Frank Lloyd Wright, who frequently designed benches to surround his fireplaces.
Last but certainly not least, Ortal’s custom designs are architectural centerpieces fit for fine dining commercial institutions and posh evil villain lairs alike. Take a look at Ortal’s brand page for more.
















