Kiln choice
I am working to set up my own studio and I really need a kiln. I've been looking at what's available and have my mind set on a little cutie called Rohde ecotop. The kiln I'll be getting must be reliable. It's an investment for years to come and I want it to perform well and last a long time. I chose a small item in the series for practical and financial reasons: a small kiln can be fired more often without unnecessary losses in energy. It is less expensive to purchase and has a lower running cost. I don't need a large kiln as I've never been fond of working large scale. I don't have enough space for something like that anyway.
I was lucky enough to be able to try firing few different types and sizes of ceramic kilns: gas and electric, tiny up to rather large ones. I prefer the convenience of electric kilns over unexpected results of gas ones. I'd normally also choose a front loading kiln over a top loader. My ecotop kiln is going to be top loader, however. It requires less space around it and with the size I am opting for stretching your back to lift heavy kiln shelves is really not going to be an issue.
Needless to say, I am super excited about this. I just can't wait for the purchase to be finalised and the new toy with all its gadgets (controller, kiln furniture, etc) to arrive. I won't be getting it until the studio space is ready, though. I have nowhere to put it and I can't fire it just about anywhere. The space it will be in must be well ventilated and ready to take some heavy duty messing. Serious health hazards are associated with the whole environment surrounding a ceramic process, so it needs a space that's well prepared to take it. Untill it's ready, I'll just keep daydreaming...