Although wood seems like the cleanest fuel, it has a few strikes against it: the carbon it stores is released rapidly into the atmosphere when it is burned; an open hearth gobbles heat from elsewhere in the home and sends heat up and out the chimney; and the smoke from wood contains chemicals and gases that pose a health risk. If used effectively, it can be a smart choice, especially for those with a woodlot in the back 40. If you must burn wood, these European models are as stylish as they are efficient
The RAIS Rondo 120, from Denmark
This convection stove comes with air-cooled handles, and because the operating ventilator is on the top of the device, the windows stay clean for a better view of the flames. ca.rais.com
The Morso 7970, from Denmark
This wall-mounted stove offers multiple views of the fire through front and side panels of glass. Added bonus: the high-quality cast iron is made of 98-per-cent recycled material. morsona.com
The Jotul F370, from Norway
A winner of multiple design awards, including the German Red Dot best-of-the-best, Norway’s Design Excellence and the U.S. Vesta. jotul.com/ca
The Ove by Invicta, from France
Leave it to the French: This cast-iron stove with enamel is slim, taking up only 55 cm x 55 cm of floor space. Invictafireplaces.com.au
The SlimFocus by Creation, from France
This closed wood-burning fireplace has received the French Union for Renewable Energy “Flamme Verte” label. The SlimFocus runs at 85.4 per cent efficiency, and is compatible with low-energy buildings. focus-creation.com
Skantherm Balance, from Germany
This unique fireplace with an upwardly swivelling door is part of a storage system with a chest of drawers, bench, shelf or other storage element. It is approved for use in low-energy and passive buildings. Skantherm.de