A fireplace does more than heat a home – it sets the tone. From the way it anchors a space to the ambience it creates, choosing the right model is an important part of any well-considered build or renovation.
With so many fuel types and formats now available – wood, gas, electric and ethanol – the key is selecting one that suits your lifestyle, layout and heating needs.
We’ve put together a few key considerations to help streamline the process and get you closer to the right fit.
1. Fuel type: start with how you’ll use it
Each fuel source has its own set of pros and practicalities. The best place to start is with how you want to use the fireplace – daily heat, occasional ambience, off-grid backup, or purely aesthetic?
Stuv 30 Compact Wood Fire
Wood – classic, reliable and atmospheric
Wood fireplaces are still a firm favourite – especially in larger open-plan homes. They produce strong radiant heat and bring a distinctive warmth you can see, hear and smell. While they’re often used in rural builds, they’re just as common in suburban homes.
Things to keep in mind: you’ll need a steady firewood supply and space to store it, in addition to a little extra cleaning. But for many, the process is part of the appeal!
Escea DFS730 Gas Fire
Gas – clean, efficient and low-maintenance
Gas fireplaces combine convenience with high performance. They offer instant heat, minimal clean-up, and a flame effect that’s just as good as the real thing. With a wide range of sizes and styles, gas is a versatile option for both new builds and renovations.
Things to keep in mind: gas fires require a flue and installation must be done by a licensed gasfitter.
Ilektro 1650 Electric Fire
Electric – simple to install, easy to live with
Electric fireplaces are more about ambience than heat output – though many now include efficient built-in heaters. They’re a great choice for apartments, second living spaces, bedrooms or anywhere a flue isn’t possible. There are many design offerings in this fast-developing sector, from small and simple to top of the range holographic.
Things to keep in mind: They plug into a standard power point, which makes installation simple, but their visual impact still depends on thoughtful placement and styling.
Ecosmart Flex Ethanol Fire
Ethanol – flue-less and visually striking
Ethanol fireplaces are all about the aesthetics – more style pieces than workhorses, these sleek, real flame fireplaces are often chosen for apartments or secondary indoor-outdoor feature points. They use clean-burning fuel and require no flue or power, making them ideal for units, alfresco areas or minimalist interiors.
Things to keep in mind: They’re best suited to occasional use or aesthetic effect, rather than whole-home heating.
2. Placement: where it’s going matters
Will it be a central feature in the main living area? A cosy corner addition? A double-sided divider between zones?
Location affects everything from heat efficiency to installation complexity.
Main living areas usually need more heat output, while bedrooms or studies might suit a smaller, wall-mounted unit. Corner installs, double-sided designs or recessed wall features can help define zones or create flow between spaces.
Escea LE1000 Holographic Electric Fireplace
3. Design and aesthetics: from statement to subtle
Fireplaces are increasingly treated as architectural features, not just heat sources. Whether your project leans Hamptons, contemporary, industrial or classic Federation, there’s a model to suit.
The right fireplace can complement or completely redefine your interior.
Sleek, frameless gas and electric models suit contemporary builds. Textured mantels, hearths and surrounds can anchor heritage or transitional spaces. And don’t forget about outdoor areas, either – slimline gas or ethanol models can extend your living zone year-round.
Sculpt JC Bordelet Tatiana 997 Suspended Wood Fireplace
4. Installation: know what’s involved, whether you’re building or renovating
Fireplaces aren’t a one-size-fits-all install. Each fuel type has different requirements, and what’s possible depends on your home’s layout, structure and access.
Early planning can save headaches – and cost – later. And with new builds or larger renos, you’ll want your selections locked in well before plasterboard goes up.
No matter the scope, engaging the right trades is key. Gas units require a flue and must be installed by licensed gasfitters, wood heaters need the correct flues and safety buffers, and even electric or ethanol units benefit from good design input to ensure they sit naturally within the room.
Subi Rest Showroom – see and feel for yourself
Need help choosing?
We work with homeowners, builders, architects and designers daily to specify fireplaces that work hard and look the part.
Book a one-on-one consultation with one of our heating specialists at the showroom, we’ll introduce you to our massive range of working models so you can experience them for yourself and get expert recommendations tailored to your project specs.