Today we’d like to introduce you to Alan Lewinger
Hi Alan, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey began with the founding of Direct Furniture, which quickly became a core source for proprietary designs to renowned retailers like Crate and Barrel, Room and Board, Bloomingdales, and Restoration Hardware. We also served major hotel chains and boutique hoteliers, providing them with unique, high-quality furniture.
In the early 2000s, I saw an opportunity to innovate within the fireplace industry. I introduced Ethanol Fireplaces to the U.S. market and developed the first Ethanol fuel safe for indoor use. This groundbreaking work led to the creation of Lumina Products, Inc., and later, American Ethanol, dedicated to the promotion and distribution of this revolutionary fuel.
Our commitment to safety didn’t stop there. Recognizing the need for safer handling, we introduced the first safe pourable bottle for Ethanol Fireplace fuel, featuring a proprietary and patent-pending flame arrestor embedded in the bottle opening. This innovation ensured that no spark or flame could enter the bottle, setting a new industry standard for safety.
The success with ethanol fireplaces inspired us to explore new technologies. We ventured into the realm of water vapor fireplaces, working closely with our overseas partners. This collaboration resulted in the creation of AQUAFIRE, the most technologically advanced water vapor fireplaces on the market. Today, AQUAFIRE stands as the gold standard in this industry segment, continually pushing the boundaries of innovation.
From pioneering Ethanol Fireplaces to setting new safety standards and advancing water vapor technology, my journey has been fueled by a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence. AQUAFIRE continues to lead the way, embodying the spirit of ingenuity and dedication that has driven my career from the start.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
ntroducing water vapor fireplaces to the market has certainly come with its challenges. As a relatively new category, many people were initially unaware of this technology. The flames look incredibly realistic, often leading viewers to believe they are seeing a traditional fire. To enhance the experience, we added over 30 color options for the flames, creating a truly customizable and captivating fire display.
Educating the market, particularly the hospitality sector, about the numerous advantages of water vapor fireplaces has been a significant undertaking. We’ve had to highlight their safety, design flexibility, affordability, ease of installation, and operational efficiency. This educational effort has taken considerable time and effort, but it has been essential for gaining recognition and acceptance.
Over the past 5-6 years, our sales have grown steadily. We are now proud to be featured in many prestigious projects, including hotels, restaurants, airport lounges, and other public spaces. Recent environmental challenges and regulations have limited the use of wood and gas fireplaces, which has further spotlighted the benefits of water vapor technology. As a result, we have seen a marked increase in inquiries and sales, signaling that water vapor fireplaces are truly coming into their own.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I consider myself a serial entrepreneur with a strong foundation in the design industry. Since the 1980s, my company, Directions, Inc., has been providing custom furniture and millwork to both the residential and hospitality sectors. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of designing furniture for prominent companies and supplying custom design products for well-known hotels and hospitality groups.
I’m particularly proud of the businesses I’ve built and the success stories of fellow entrepreneurs I’ve had the pleasure of mentoring. Our company prides itself on being employee-centric, fostering a cohesive and effective team dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences. This commitment to our team and our clients is, in my view, my most valuable achievement.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I’ve chosen to make my home in Asheville, NC, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with my wife and family. The joys of hiking and spending time on our nearby farm with loved ones are incredibly rewarding. When we’re not at home, we travel the country in our Sprinter van, which includes a mobile office, allowing us to blend work and adventure seamlessly.
Life has been full and gratifying, but my greatest moments of happiness come from the recent additions to our growing family. It’s heartwarming to see how these new arrivals bring our children closer together, creating an incredibly enjoyable and tight-knit family unit.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aquafire.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aquafire/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AquafireFireplace
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9kF54R0ZMFvJbOo5NMstpw
