Why I can’t do custom sized firebowls
All of my firebowls are cut from recycled steel tanks. As a result, I am limited to the industry standard sizes that are commonly produced. Those sizes are 30, 37 and 41 inches in diameter.
The hydraulic presses used to make the bowls are giant machines that exert 800 tons of force. There are only about a half dozen companies in the US that have the machinery to make such large bowls from heavy steel. Here’s a video that shows one of the presses in action.
On very rare occasions, I’ve found antique tanks in larger sizes like 48 or 53 inches in diameter. I’ve found maybe 8 of those in ten years. If I have them, they’ll be in the store. Those sizes are no longer produced commercially. I’ve tried to get price quotes from the only manufacturer in the states who has the capability of making larger bowls but they have never responded to my requests.
How to choose the size that’s right for you
I find most people much prefer the 37 inch size to the 30 inch when seeing the firebowls in person. They’re more functional. They have greater presence and drama. The 30 inch size is great for smaller spaces or specific projects where the focus is more about decor or ambiance than actually sitting around the fire. Although the 41 inch size doesn’t sound that much larger than the 37, it really is a significantly larger bowl— remember, when you scale up a sphere, it grows larger in all directions. If you are looking for a real centerpiece for your landscape design, I highly recommend the 41 in size.
I know budget is one reason people consider the smaller size, but I can’t recommend strongly enough, price should never be the primary consideration in selecting one piece of art over another. If you’ve already decided to invest in a work of art that will be a daily presence and a legacy for generations, make the choice based on how it makes you feel and how it fits your space.
The chart above is a scale drawing of all three sizes of Sculptural Firebowls™ shown side by side.
The chart above is a scale drawing of all three sizes of Sculptural Firebowls™ shown nested, or, one in front of the other.