I don’t know about where you are, but here in Chicago IT IS COLD.  Right now I am looking out the window at a fresh blanket of snow covering the ground and even more flakes falling from the sky.  All I can think about are things that make me warm – hot cocoa, fuzzy slippers, comfy sweaters, and the warm glow of a fire.

There is something so mesmerizing about fire – watching flames dance around as they curl around the logs, listening to the crackling of the wood … the smoky scent that fills the air, the warmth radiating from the hearth … ahhhhh.

[image via Frau Nocturna]

Modern fireplace design comes with a hefty price tag, but there are some really amazing options to gawk at and dream of maybe one day being able to afford.

Don’t have a fireplace?   Candles just aren’t enough?  Try this tabletop fireplace designed by Carl Mertens.  Two stainless steel “logs” that can bring a warm glow to any room.  Available at Generate Design.

These indoor/outdoor ottoman fires turn your fireplace into a functional piece of furniture when not in use.  From Conmoto.

These little hot pot fires are also from Conmoto and would work great for outdoor entertaining.

And one more from Conmoto – a fireplace you can roll around.  What will they think of next?!

This amazing fireplace design is from Rutz Feuerstellen [Troja]- the door slides open and closed, turning your fireplace into a work of art.

Another “hideable” creation from Rutz Feuerstellen [Amfri]- beautiful!

Timber, leather, glass, and stainless steel sit upon a swivel base … introducinng Zeta, designed by John Dimopoulos and featuring EcoSmart technology.  Ventless, portable, sleek, and definitely on my Covet List.