The beauty of a Fireplace System in an Insert?

[BKPmax]

We need a wood burning insert. I do not like the look of the surrounds.
After a long time looking at different inserts, I've concluded that inserts can't come close to matching the beauty of a fireplace-System, i.e. flush and architectural with beautiful iron arches...
What I like doesn't seem to exist, a product not made yet.
Unless one of you wizards of wood has an idea for me?
(I have seen the Lopi)

 

[mellow]

Have you looked at the VC Montpelier's?

 

[BKPmax]

Yes. ..And read the bad reviews...

 

[tiber]

Well, it's not really lopi, it's a travis industries piece. For whatever reason they're sold as lopi, fireplace X and avalon.

http://www.lopistoves.com/
http://www.fireplacextrordinair.com/
http://www.avalonstoves.com/

Not really sure why but whatever.

 

[Fsappo]

There is another company that makes something you may be interested. I sold one once about 20 years ago. Its made by Fuego. Here is a link to the info. I didnt look to closely at the specs but from what I recall they are a hybrid of sorts. Much improved efficiency over an open fireplace with keeping the fireplace look somewhat intact. Still not as efficient as a new EPA Certified insert, but it may solve your problem.

http://www.fuegoflame.com/PDF/Fuego insert brochure.pdf

that link didnt show up right, try this

http://www.fuegoflame.com/

Just click on the "inserts" button. You should get there

 

[Todd]

Maybe it's time to consider a good looking hearth stove? Did you remove your heatform yet? I got mine out last week.

https://www.hearth.com/econtent/index.php/forums/viewthread/56601/

 

[BKPmax]

Look at the photos. Can you guys think of reasons we couldn't do this?
Ditch the surround and rebuild fascia to match?

 

[basswidow]

What do you have now? A masonary fireplace?

As long as the owners manual allows for the clearances - I would think you should be able to do so. I have a zero clearance and several models allow for you to mortar and stone them in such a way.

 

[BKPmax]

Yes. A masonry fireplace. We're removing a heatform, and rebuilding firebox & smoke chamber.

 

[cmonSTART]

You're rebuilding the firebox and smoke chamber, and installing an insert??

I see no problem with finishing the fireplace as in the photos above as long as the insert can be pulled for service, or there is at least a way to get in there for inspection.