Wood fireplace replacement

[PSchilMN]

I have a house built in 1987 that has a masonry fireplace (Kozy Heat 236 I believe). The previous owner took the doors off and put a gas insert in. But I want to get back to burning wood.
Anyways, am I able to put in a wood insert in this space without demolition of the Kozy heat? I would like to go with a Regency wood insert, but when I have reached out to 2 local companies they seem unsure, or that I should demo bricks and remove the Kozy Heat unit and go with a new high-efficiency wood fireplace. The clay flue on top of chimney is big enough to put in a new insulated liner (13" x 18").
Any suggestions are appreciated.
Paul

 

[john26]

Your fireplace is like a Heatilator, with doors prefab surrounded with full masonry if built right. If you had the doors maybe convert it back and try it? I would reach out to regency and see what they say or maybe call Kozy heat.