Vortex: A Revolutionary Fireplace Design by Dario Sousa

Winner of the Golden A' Furniture Design Award in 2021

The Vortex, designed by Dario Sousa and his team member Diana Castro, is a unique fireplace that breaks away from conventional aesthetics. Its asymmetrical form, inspired by the powerful imagery of a black hole, results in a striking image and dominant presence. This design, which took place from October 2018 to March 2019 in Porto, Portugal, is a testament to the team's innovative approach to design and technology.

What sets the Vortex apart is its dual combustion solutions: Traditional Wood and Bioethanol Automatic Burner. These options provide the comfort of a real flame without the inconvenience of smoke, ash, or smells. This innovative feature, coupled with its unique design, makes the Vortex a perfect addition to both public and private spaces.

The creation of the Vortex involved meticulous hand drawing followed by CAD tech drawing. The realization process included laser cutting and welding technology, and a thermo-resistant powder coating painting over its main material, carbon steel. The technical specifications of the Vortex are impressive, with dimensions of 1620 mm x 595 mm x 600 mm and a heat output of 5.9 - 10.6 KW.

Despite the challenges faced during the design process, such as adhering to legal requirements for public and private spaces and ensuring the fireplace's heating function without compromising its aesthetic appeal, Dario Sousa and his team successfully created a fireplace that is both functional and visually stunning.

The Vortex is more than just a fireplace; it is a testament to the power of innovative design and technology. As Dario Sousa puts it, "Breaking with any definite convention of beauty, Vortex assumes itself as a brand image, establishing a new paradigm of fire harmony." This statement encapsulates the essence of the Vortex, a design that is as much about aesthetics as it is about function and innovation.

The Vortex's recognition as the winner of the Golden A' Furniture Design Award in 2021 is a testament to its unique design and innovative features. This award is granted to outstanding creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics. The Vortex, with its unique design and innovative features, is indeed a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.