Another great change in the fireplace industry was the electric fire – a direct result of the change I mentioned earlier. As the fireplace was no longer the main way of keeping us warm and became a lifestyle item people wanted their fireplaces in places with no gas connections or chimneys – the electric fireplace was born, easy to use, simple to install by anyone, everywhere. All you need is a socket and you can turn the room into a cosy, warm place for your family and friends.

Now let’s look at fireplace design evolving through the last years. First there was the traditional electric fire and mantle/ surround. It is still a very popular choice for most people as it perfectly replaces the old solid fuel or gas fireplaces in most old houses in England. Then we have the outset electric fire, usually with fake logs or coals on top – I have to say I am not a fan of these as I think they look terrible but if somebody wants to buy one – go ahead!

I personally think that the wall mounted electric fireplace is a beautiful thing – it comes in various shapes and sizes, it takes no floor space and some of the designs are just stunning.

Next big thing in the fireplace industry for me was the electric fireplace suite as I call it – a fireplace surround and heater in one. I believe that the first company to produce one of these was Adam Fire Surrounds with their Manhattan and Toronto fireplaces. If you think about it – how easy it is to install one of these – it’s a one piece fireplace (just like the wall mounted units) and Adams have developed many more fireplace suites since then – Sambro, Cubist are just the examples of modern, stylish electric fireplaces suited perfectly to sit under your wall mounted plasma TV.

What is the next step? Will the industry go back to the traditional approach? Will the brass finish come back once again or maybe cast iron and marble fireplaces? Time will show – one thing is sure – the consumer will benefit from a well designed, beautiful electric fireplaces.