How to Choose the Right Electric Fireplace Style for Your Home

A practical guide to choosing the right fireplace style before comparing models.

The honest answer

The right electric fireplace style depends on the room, the wall, the installation, and how permanent you want the fireplace to feel.

Most buyers should start by choosing the style first, then the brand, size, features, and price.

Quick answer

Choose wall mounted for easier installation. Choose built-in for a custom wall. Choose inserts for existing fireplace openings. Choose fireplace suites for a finished mantel-style look.

Wall mounted fireplaces

Wall mounted fireplaces are best when you want a clean upgrade without a major construction project. They work well in apartments, bedrooms, offices, and smaller living rooms.

Built-in fireplaces

Built-in fireplaces are best for remodels, media walls, new construction, and feature walls. They usually look more finished because the fireplace becomes part of the room.

For more comparison, read Built-In vs Wall Mounted Electric Fireplaces.

Inserts and suites

Electric inserts are best for existing fireplace openings. Fireplace suites are best when you want the fireplace to feel like furniture or a mantel without building a custom wall.

A suite such as the Sustainable Hearth Capella Mantel Suite is useful to compare if you want a finished traditional look.

Modern, traditional, and three-sided styles

Linear fireplaces work well in modern rooms and media walls. Traditional inserts work well in classic rooms. Three-sided fireplaces work well in luxury feature walls and open-concept designs.

Common mistakes

The first mistake is choosing by brand before choosing the style. The second is buying a fireplace that does not fit the wall. The third is choosing a style that requires more installation than the room deserves.

If this were my house

For a media wall, I would choose built-in. For a bedroom or apartment, I would start wall mounted. For an existing opening, I would choose an insert. For a traditional living room, I would compare fireplace suites.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most popular electric fireplace style?

Wall mounted and built-in fireplaces are both popular, depending on whether the project is simple or permanent.

Which style looks most custom?

Built-in fireplaces usually look the most custom.

Related guides from Very Good Fireplaces

• Linear vs. Traditional Electric Fireplaces
• Built-In vs Wall Mounted Electric Fireplaces
• Electric Fireplace Sizes Explained
• Electric Fireplace Buying Guide

Final thought

Pick the fireplace style before picking the model. Once the style fits the room, choosing the right size, brand, and features becomes much easier.