Patent ID: 7140364

Claim:
A modular fireplace apparatus comprising: a firebox comprising: a base; a central body comprising pre-cast vermiculite concrete disposable upon said base, and comprising an inner body wall defining and partially surrounding a combustion chamber; a smoke plenum section comprising pre-cast vermiculite concrete, disposable upon said central body, and comprising transition surfaces for directing smoke to a chimney; a front portion comprising pre-cast vermiculit concrete and defining a box aperture opening into said combustion chamber; and a facade locatable around said firebox to at least partially surround and enclose said firebox, said facade comprising: a lightweight frame comprising a plurality of rigid metal tubes, said frame defining a facade aperture; and a metal mesh fixedly secured to said lightweight frame and said front portion around said box aperture opening, whereby said mesh extends between said frame and said firebox; and at least one coat of stucco applied to said wire mesh; wherein said base, central body, and plenum section are modular, said facade aperture is alignable with said box aperture to permit access through said facade into said combustion chamber, and said central body connectable to said base and said smoke chamber connectable to said central body by refractory mortar.