We will be undertaking a new home construction and plan on installing a non-cat castiron woodstove in the living area. Estimate that we need to heat 1800 sq ft. Local dealer has recommended Vermont Castings Encore, HearthStone Shelbourne, or DutchWest 2479. I looked at Hearth.com ratings and the Vermont Castings stoves had really mixed reviews, presumably due to a change in ownership? We also wondered about the top-load feature on this stove...doesn't the rising heat singe your eyebrows?! The DutchWest is the lowest price and offers side-loading. I like the look of the HearthStone Shelbourne, but it does not have the side-load option. Anyone have experience with any of these stoves? Thanks in advance!