Two Hot Shot Fireplace Experts Reflect On Their Recent Collaboration

John Lyle | John Lyle Design

Sometimes a single conversation can change the trajectory of a career. This was the case for John Lyle, who has been a standout in the design world for over 30 years. He decided to concentrate on fireplace accessories after speaking with Holly Hunt, whose eponymous showrooms make her an arbiter of fine design. Lyle explains, “The first product I made was lighting; the second was andirons. They both really caught on, and while meeting with Holly Hunt, I asked her advice. Fireplace equipment and adornment was her answer . . . so naturally I made it my focus.”

His recent showroom collaboration with Scott Robertson of Igne Ferro USA combines the artistic and entrepreneurial skills of these two innovators. “Scott and I get along very well and share a passion for design and quality,” Lyle shares. “Particularly we love anything to do with fireplaces. Mantels, screens, andirons, tools and realistic gas log fires.”

Lyle’s collection includes bespoke pieces for clients; and while he prefers a mix of styles, he happily accommodates any aesthetic design. “I use bronze, white bronze and steel,” he notes. “My favorite thing now is making sculptural fire screens.”

“I am here for the love of furnishings as art,” is a quote attributed to Lyle, and it sums up his enthusiasm for the field. “I take inspiration from so many things. My guiding light is a hypercritical eye and keen sense of scale and form – combined with luxury materials,” he reveals.

Interior designers, architects and décor lovers are welcomed to the showroom at 241 East 58th Street in New York City, just steps from the D&D Building. This showroom is also home to Igne Ferro USA’s stunning line of customized fireplaces, giving new meaning to the term “perfect fit.”

Scott Robertson | Igne Ferro USA

It was a head-scratcher. New York City has a reputation as one of the design capitals of the world, yet there was no outlet for high-end fireplaces. Cue fireplace manufacturer Igne Ferro, who opened a showroom spotlighting their line of custom handcrafted marble and stone fireplace mantels. Scott Robertson, CEO of Igne Ferro USA, said the location makes perfect sense for this multinational company. “When I decided to open a showroom in New York City, I was motivated to join New York’s design world because we are the only gas fireplace store in Manhattan.” Igne Ferro sources direct-vent gas fireplaces from Ortal, an international firm specializing in styles ranging from contemporary to classic.

The new Igne Ferro showroom shares space with John Lyle, a leading designer of fireplace accents. “John and I have been friends for years; I have always admired his magnificent designs and quality craftsmanship,” Robertson shares. “Our showroom is a great resource for all things related to the heart of the home, hearth and fire. Several traditional and linear modern gas fireplaces are on display, and we make custom mantels to fit any existing or new fireplace opening. If you can dream it, we can create it. We also sell the sculptural, free-hanging wood fireplaces from JC Bordelet, made in France.”

Obviously not your average fireplace store, the showroom displays a spectrum of distinctive designs. “Modern linear fireplaces are most popular these days because of the sleek look and the versatility in the design; they are especially successful in new condos with larger windows and a more modern feel,” Robertson notes. “I personally still love a traditional fireplace look with a mantel and beautiful screen.”

As in every aspect of home design, fireplace trends come and go, Robertson concludes. “Mantels have always been popular in marble and still are. Styles are shifting toward modernized Art Deco lines. Additionally, John Lyle and I are working on some modern mantels made out of stainless steel and bronze. He also is consistently adding new furniture and accessories to his fireplace line, which is very exciting.”

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