b'picture: Lucy Gauntlett and Matt Stecmake a statementIn addition to their obvious practical purpose of bringing warmth and light to a room, replaces also act as visual focal points in many living spaces, even when not in use. And where, in the past, hearths and replaces were less ReseneResene dramatic, today they have been elevated to a new status, where aestheticColins Wicket Moroccan Spiceappeal is a key consideration alongside functionality.This completely refurbished family home, designed by Peter Eising and Lucy Gauntlett, of Pacic Environments Architects, features spacious, light-lled living areas, connected by a gallery and opening out to the pool. As a result, the replace in the downstairs lounge was designed to t in with the large scale of the spaces and to complement the artwork showcased throughoutReseneResene the house. The replaces huge concrete hearth shelf measures 6m in length,Zulu Alabasterrunning from wall to wall, while the replace itself is a generous 4m long.Both the hearth and the boxed-out section above the replace are nished in 600mm x 600mm metallic tiles. With their natural volcanic look and mix of dark grey, beige and golden tones, they add visual texture and depth, despite their smooth nish, and complement other elements in the room, such as the rug and slate-coloured cushions. Standing out dramatically from the neutral walls and ceiling, painted in Resene Half Tea, the tiles also evoke the natural surroundings of the home, which sits on the lip of a volcanic crater lake.Behind the gas-red ames, a stainless steel rear wall reects the colours and movement of the re as it burns. In addition to this mirror effect, the steel alsoResene Half Teacomplements other stainless steel elements found throughout the house.| 127'