On our journeys around the world we see some chimneys and chimney pots which are built to blend in with exquisite adjacent architecture, in a strange shape or in a modern, unusual design. We are searching for these objects whether old or new but definitely unique in some way. During our travels we often look up to the rooftops spotting weathervanes (or aerials which turn out to be birds sitting on them) and gasp at some of the unusual chimneys and chimney pots that we see. We want to use this category to create a unique collection of these.
In today’s modern society we are turning away from the use of fossil fuels and concentrating on greener ways to produce energy. Often, this means that the older style chimneys and pots are replaced with simple flues for gas or phased out entirely into very basic outlets; a non-combustible wall thimble allows a vent pipe to be run directly through the outside wall. The old, interesting chimneys and pots are of special value as now less time is spent on creating homes in favour of quick builds and without a need for chimneys.
In industrial circumstances chimneys are referred to as flue gas stacks and so long as these are publicly visible and unique we will accept them. Also, those Lonely Chimneys in the category of this name are welcome to be cross-waymarked here if they are of an interesting design.
Modern chimneys and pots do exist, however, often in some bizarre locations and artistic architecture. These are also welcome here.
Chimneys are most commonly made of brick in a residential setting but can also be metal especially on locomotives or ships. If you are waymarking these they are OK as long as they are on permanent, static display to the public and are unique – no standard tubes please!
Chimney pots are a decorative top or venting cap to the chimney used to control downdrafts. As time has moved on and older buildings have been demolished many of these pots have been destroyed or sold on to the reclamation yards. Here, you can purchase chimney pots for your own use; often they are re-utilised as garden plant pots for example. If you can find one of these, they are welcome as long as they are publicly accessible.
Below are some examples of chimneys we would accept (with a green tick) and those we would decline (with a red cross).
We are not looking for the more modern chimney cowls which are simple, standard caps. Please research your building’s history in order to make your waymark more interesting and include any information about the architecture in respect of the chimney.
As always please be careful with unstable structures and do not venture onto private property, a good quality zoom photograph is all that is required together with a general view.
Please bear in mind that a submission may include all the chimneys/pots on that building which can be featured as additional photographs. Therefore - one submission per property. If you are in any doubt as to whether your chimney/pot is 'unique' feel free to contact us prior to submission.