Meet the Founder Louise Varre
My Scandinavian background
I have a Swedish mother and a Norwegian father and my childhood was spent in both countries. Growing up in Scandinavia, fire held a special place in my heart. My childhood home was filled with interior fireplaces, and in summer our family and friends would gather by the outdoor fireplace at my grandparents’ home in Torekov, southern Sweden.
My grandmother, Ninne (the name sake of our bench), instilled in me the understanding of the profound beauty that lies within simplicity and the importance of creating an inviting home. The fireplace often served as the centrepiece of our gatherings, as it was where our family truly connected. It became a symbol of love, warmth, and cherished memories. Now, I carry on the tradition of gathering around the fireplace with my own children, who share the same love and appreciation for these moments.
Why Eldvarm was born
When I founded Eldvarm in 2015, my vision went beyond simply creating beautiful fireplace accessories. I wanted to create a space where people could come together, share stories and connect around the warmth of a fire.
Working in the fireplace industry at that time, I was often asked by customers and friends where they could find quality fireplace tools that were both beautiful and functional. I found that I had no tools to recommend as everything that existed on the market prioritised one or the other, never both. Having noticed this gap in the market, I began to think that perhaps I could make these perfect tools myself… and the spark that became Eldvarm was born.
My love for the fire
Since the beginning of time people have met by the fire and shared stories. The fire provided heat, cooked our food and protected us from predators. Even if we no longer need the fire for survival, it can still represent comfort, a time to relax and spend time with the people that we love.
I believe that we all share a collective memory of the flame’s importance and that this sparks something deep within us. For me, lighting a candle or a fire has the effect of lowering the sound of life, and if I am lucky, it may even slow it down for a moment. This is what it means to me to Eldvarm, and I invite you to join me.
Louise Varre
Founder & CEO