What to put instead of a fireplace
So you've ripped out a fireplace, or maybe you just never bothered installing one. And now there's this weird, empty hole where something should be. It's the kind of space that just stares at you. Used to be the heart of the room, right? Now it's just... nothing. People are ditching traditional fireplaces for all sorts of reasons—better energy bills, less mess, or just wanting something that doesn't look like it's from 1985. Honestly, what you put there depends on what you're after. Heat? Vibe? Storage? Or just something pretty to look at?
Best functional alternatives for a fireplace opening
Got a dead fireplace or a sealed-off hole? Here's what actually works:
- Electric fireplace insert: Fake flames that actually look decent, plus zone heating for when you're cold. No chimney, no mess. Cheap to install, and it'll blast out more heat than you'd think for a single room.
- Bioethanol burner: Real flames, no smoke, no soot. It's kinda wild. Great for apartments where you don't have a chimney. Just fill it up and light it.
- Large plant display: Think big—fiddle-leaf figs, monsteras, that kind of stuff. Fills the space with green, makes the air cleaner. Zero heat, but visually it's a statement. Maybe not for everyone though.
- Bookshelf or built-in storage: Custom cabinetry that slides right into the cavity. Perfect for books, trinkets, or hiding remotes. No fire maintenance at all.
What is the best modern replacement for a traditional fireplace?
I'm gonna be honest—the electric fireplace insert with smart controls is the winner here. No chimney, no gas line, no cleaning. The new models let you change flame colors, adjust heat through an app on your phone. It's like having a fire without the hassle. If you just want the look and don't care about warmth, go with a high-def LED one. They're basically just really good visual effects.
How do I decorate a fireplace opening if I don't use it?
Maybe you want to keep the opening but never actually burn anything. Treat it like a weird little stage. Here's what I'd do:
- Stacked logs with candles: Get some birch logs, stand 'em up, put pillar candles on top. Looks rustic, safe, and warm without the smoke.
- Art piece or mirror: Lean a big mirror or painting against the back wall. Adds depth, bounces light around. Makes the room feel bigger. li>Seasonal decor: Pumpkins in fall, pinecones in winter, shells or flowers in summer. Change it up whenever you get bored.
- Floating shelves: Install a shelf inside the opening. Put little sculptures, vases, or those dumb photo frames you got from your aunt.
Can I put a TV where a fireplace was?
Yeah, people do this all the time. But there's stuff you gotta think about:
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Heat damage | If it was wood-burning, seal and insulate the flue. Seriously. Residual heat can fry your TV. |
| Viewing angle | Fireplace openings sit low. Get a tilting bracket or you'll be craning your neck all the time. |
| Size limitation | Measure the depth and width. A 50-inch TV is about the max for a standard 36-inch wide fireplace. Don't force it. |
| Ventilation | TVs need to breathe. Leave at least 2 inches of space on all sides inside the cavity. |
What are the cheapest options to fill a fireplace hole?
On a budget? No problem. These are the cheapest ways I know:
- Drywall and paint: Just close it up. Costs under 50 bucks. You get a blank wall..
- Large mirror: Thrift one or find a discount mirror. Props inside the opening. Makes the room look bigger for basically nothing.
- Stack of firewood: If you've got logs lying around, just pile 'em in. Looks like you're ready for a fire but without the actual fire.
- Fabric screen: A decorative room divider or some fabric stretched over a frame. Cheap, quick, hides the opening.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a gas fireplace insert in a non-vented opening?
Hell no. Gas fireables produce carbon monoxide. You need proper venting. Using one in a non-vented opening is dangerous and probably illegal where you live. Call a pro.
Do electric fireplaces heat a room well?
Yeah, most can handle up to 400 square feet. They're not as powerful as gas, but they're fine for supplemental heating. And they're 100% efficient at the point of use—no heat loss.
How do I seal an old fireplace opening permanently?
Clean the cavity, shove in rigid foam insulation, cover with plywood, then finish with drywall. For the flue, cap it at the roofline or use a metal damper seal. Stops drafts and keeps animals out. Not a weekend project, but doable.
Is a bioethanol fireplace safe for a bedroom?
Generally yes—they burn clean with no smoke. But they eat oxygen and pump out CO2. Keep a window slightly open for ventilation. And never leave it unattended. Seriously.
Short summary
- Functional replacements: Electric inserts and bioethanol burners provide heat and ambiance without chimney requirements.
- Decorative solutions: Large plants, stacked logs with candles, or art pieces transform the void into a design feature.
- TV placement: Possible with proper heat sealing, tilting brackets, and ventilation gaps for electronics safety.
- Budget options: Drywall, mirrors, or simple wood stacks are the most affordable ways to fill a fireplace opening.
