Out With The Gas Fire
A room transformed: Installing the Hobbit Stove in a Small Space
Whether you’re looking to warm a small home, a garden retreat, or a narrowboat, the Hobbit Stove offers the perfect combination of size, performance, and charm. We have a great example of just how much of a difference a Hobbit Stove can have on a space, by replacing an older and outdated gas fire. Our customer, John, wanted a solution that offered warmth, charm, and efficiency while fitting snugly into a modestly sized room.
The original fireplace was home to an uninspiring gas fire that had outlived its time. It lacked the character and efficiency they needed for their room. Removing the old fire was straightforward, but disconnecting the gas supply required professional assistance to ensure safety. Once the old setup was gone, the space felt ready for a new lease of life. The Hobbit Stove’s compact dimensions—just 302mm wide, 272mm deep, and 465mm high—meant it could fit neatly into the existing fireplace. However, the area required significant preparation. Knocking out the old fireplace exposed the original chimney, which was lined with a new flue to safely vent smoke. This upgrade supports the stove’s impressive 81.4% efficiency rating, ensuring that every burn is clean and effective.
The next step involved creating a heat-resistant environment for the stove. Fireproof boards were installed around the opening, followed by a slate hearth that not only met safety standards but added a touch of rustic elegance to the space. Once the space was prepared, the Hobbit Stove was installed and connected to the flue. John says, ‘its cast iron construction felt solid and reassuring, with every inch of it hand-finished and inspected in Salamander Stoves’ Devon workshop.’
After the stove was installed, the surrounding walls were rendered to give the fireplace a clean and finished look. A carbon monoxide alarm was added nearby, providing peace of mind and ensuring safety. Before lighting the first fire, they conducted a smoke test to verify the setup. Watching the smoke draw perfectly through the flue was a reassuring sign that everything was ready for use. This installation wasn’t just about adding a heat source; it was about creating a focal point that elevates the space. The Hobbit Stove does exactly that, combining functionality with timeless design. Its Eco Design certification means it meets stringent 2022 standards, reducing particulate and gas emissions without compromising on warmth or charm.
The 5-year warranty provided further assurance of its quality, and the front-mounted air controls make it easy to adjust the heat output to suit the room’s needs. With each stove hand-finished in the UK, it’s a product that is personal and well-crafted. John says, ‘with the Hobbit Stove in place, the room has gone from ordinary to extraordinary. The flicker of flames through the glass window adds a comforting glow, while the efficient heat output makes the space feel inviting on even the coldest days. Photos of the transformation show just how impactful the stove has been, turning a tired old fireplace into a standout feature.’
