John T. Unger debuts FlatPack Architectural Fire Feature

Casual Living Staff -- Casual Living, 7/3/2012 11:04:08 AM

Designed by artist John T. Unger, the FlatPack Architectural Fire Feature is a stainless steel work of functional art inspired by architectural design motifs.Artist John T. Unger, who specializes in sculptural fire bowls, has unveiled a new line based on architectural design motifs to harmonize with the architectural style of homes.

The FlatPack Architectural Fire Feature, a stainless steel work of functional art, features a patent-pending design that assembles easily with no tools or hardware and can be up and running in minutes with its plug and play propane system.

"I've always loved architecture, and because these fire features are an extension of the home, I was inspired to base the first designs on architectural motifs from different styles and periods," Unger said. "Future designs will reference other architectural motifs including Art Deco, Modernist, Prairie Style and others."

Unger's plan for the line is to eventually create designs to fit any period home as well as narrative panels and designs based on forms from natural history.

"Like my Sculptural Firebowls, the FlatPack Architectural Fire Feature is first and foremost a beautiful sculpture designed to interact with the light and shadow of fire," Unger said. "But it is also a new direction. Unlike the standard oxidized patina of my recycled work, FlatPack Fire Features are laser cut from heavy-duty stainless steel, retain their original finish and are surface friendly for decks, patios or stonework."

The interior of the Fire Feature glows a warm orange while the exterior is backlit in silhouette. The sunburst of rays casts shadows projected by dancing flames. The top of the Fire Feature has a beveled edge and slightly rounded corners. The design has been thoroughly tested to insure that it can be safely used on traditional or plastic wood decks without concern for combustion.

Solutions to a number of design opportunities encountered with Unger's hand-cut Sculptural Firebowls were incorporated into the Victorian FlatPack Fire Feature.

"As an artist, I wanted to expand on what I was capable of creating on my own and put the tools of industry to the task of creating beauty," said Unger. "I believe a factory is like a symphony orchestra, a collection of skilled people with specialized tools who can bring great art into being if you give them a plan."

The FlatPack Architectural Fire Feature ships ready for use with propane, although units can be special-ordered for use with natural gas at no additional cost. Each unit includes a built-in automatic ignition burner with safety shut off, a regulator and hose.