Which platform are you on ? I'm on PS4 (Disc), ver 1.02.
If I recall, I wasn't able to open the blocked door or bash the crates out of the way to save the smith, so it seemed to me like a casualty you're forced to endure. I was able to save everyone else on my first playthrough, but not the smith.
BTW, I've confirmed in my 2nd playthough (nightmare mode) that players can completely ignore saving any NPCs and just focus on fighting, and there seems to be no impact to your follower approvals, or the overall quest outcome. Any service-related NPCs who die will be automatically replaced when you reach skyhold, and that includes the smith, apothecary, arcane researcher, requisitions, etc. I suspect the only decision of consequence in the entire quest is whether or not you want cole as a follower, otherwise your sole responsibility is to survive to the final cutscene, and that's it.
BTW, if anyone wants some tips for the haven fight on nightmare mode as a mage, I posted some tips over here, starting at the 5th post.
