Business, Product Expansion Stoke Fire

At The Black Swan

By Kendra Bobowick

Guests crossing the rough-hewn wooden floors to stand beside a fireplace casting warmth against the chilly November weather may not realize that they are gazing into the gas fires of new technology. Black Swan founders Tom and Carrie Swan have a new, prestigious association with Hearth & Home Technologies (HHT), the leading manufacturer of heating products in the industry and a line the Swans currently carry. The HHT has selected Black Swan as the only “Fireside Hearth and Home Gallery” in the Northeast.

Ms Swan said, “We’re the flagship store. It’s a distinction and I am glad to have it. It’s an honor.”

Ms Swan notes that consumers will likely hear more about newer heating technologies as they seek alternative means of heating their homes.

“People will be looking to zone their heat more efficiently,” she said. Hearth and Home Technologies, manufacturers of Heat & Glo, Heatilator, and Quadra-Fire, is the recipient of a Vesta Award, created to recognize companies for innovative product design and technology.

“With the new line [customers] will be able to see the best and most advanced technology — we only have a smattering now,” Ms Swan said.

Since 1979 the Black Swan — a fireplace, alternative heating, and gift shop — has been outfitting homes with fireplaces and accessories while cultivating a growing line of products.

The old house-turned-store is filled with fireplace and wood burning stove models, gas fireplaces and insets, all forms of hearth and mantel accessories and decorations nestled among an increasing number of gift items.

Aside from the product expansions and flagship status, the business itself is also expanding from its current 1,600 square foot location to an 8,000-square-foot relocation in the lot directly behind the Black Swan’s current address along Route 25.

Retreating to the backroom of her shop and searching for space to sit, Ms Swan said, “Anyone who has ever been in here on a Saturday knows you can barely move.” All available wall space and surfaces are crowded with candles, figurines, ornaments, and cast-iron fireplace items, to name only some merchandise. Interspersed between lemon-scented dried flowers and mantelpiece items are wood burning stoves, pellet and gas stoves and fireplaces, screens, outdoor chimineas, and other home heating fixtures. The Swans anticipate breaking ground this fall to begin construction of their new showroom, which will feature “vignette” rooms showcasing specific fireplaces, home décor, and accessories to help customers picture finished rooms.

“It’s going to be amazing,” said Ms Swan. For consumers, she anticipates a “huge amount of product.” She also believes that the expansion and establishment of a larger showroom will help her customers.

“They will be able to spark their imagination and get more ideas about which fireplace they like,” she said.

She feels her new store and advanced product line will make the Black Swan, “fun and warm and cozy.”

Visit the Black Swan’s website at blackswanhome.com and learn more about the store, home heating options, and Heat & Glo Heatilators. Store hours are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5:30 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm.