Posted by Christopher Tapia on 3rd Dec 2025

What Is the New Trend for Gas Fireplaces?

The New Trend: Safety + Design + Technology

When people ask me, “What’s the new trend for gas fireplaces?” they usually expect a simple answer like “linear” or “modern.” But the truth is, today's trend is bigger than just the look. It’s a combination of:

  • Direct vent technology for maximum safety
  • Linear, frameless, contemporary designs
  • Cool wall systems that let you place a TV closer than ever

If you're planning a new home or remodeling your living space, understanding these trends will help you choose a fireplace that’s modern, safe, and built with the future in mind.

Direct Vent Gas Fireplaces: The #1 Trend Today

The biggest trend right now is very clear:

Direct vent gas fireplaces are becoming the standard.

A direct vent fireplace pulls all its oxygen from the outside and vents all exhaust gases to the outside. The fire is sealed behind glass and uses no indoor air.

This means:

  • No fumes or gases enter the room
  • No oxygen is taken from the home
  • Higher safety for families, pets, and children
  • More efficient burning and cleaner air

When I explain this to customers, it becomes a no brainer. They want a beautiful fireplace but they also want a safe one.

Modern Lines: Linear, Frameless Gas Fireplaces

Among all direct vent fireplaces, linear models are dominating new builds and modern renovations. These clean, wide fireplaces often have:

  • A frameless edge or very thin trim
  • A wide, contemporary look
  • Low and clean installation height
  • Recessed TVs above
  • Minimalistic finishes and large format porcelain slabs

Top Brands Leading the Trend

These brands all support the same general trend: direct vent, clean-lined fireplaces that look like artwork.

Two Types of Customers, One Common Goal

Even though trends lean modern, I consistently see two main types of gas fireplace customers:

1. Customers Who Want a Traditional Look

They want:

  • Big, realistic logs
  • Tall flames
  • Stone veneer surrounds
  • A wood mantel
  • A classic Northeast-style fireplace look

2. Customers Who Want a Modern, Minimalist Look

They usually ask for:

  • Long linear fireplaces
  • Large porcelain slabs
  • No mantel
  • A flushed, recessed TV above
  • A clean finish with no visible vents

Regardless of style, both groups want the same thing: big flames, large glass, and a realistic, impressive fire presentation.

Cool Wall Systems: The Fastest-Growing Trend

One of the strongest trends today is the cool wall system. This system allows you to safely place a TV much closer to the fireplace or even eliminate the mantel entirely.

Cool wall systems:

  • Lower temperatures inside the chase
  • Protect electronics and TVs
  • Reduce clearance requirements
  • Open up more design possibilities
  • Add an extra layer of safety

Builders, designers, and homeowners request this feature more every year.

This is the trend I personally recommend the most.

How Builders’ Expectations Have Changed

A few years ago, builders would install any basic fireplace just to check a box. Today, they want a fireplace that acts as an architectural centerpiece.

Fireplaces have evolved from heating appliances to design anchors. They shape the room, influence furniture placement, and often become the main focal point of the home.

A Common Misconception: “These Modern Fireplaces Must Be Thin”

Many customers assume that because the front is sleek and modern, the unit must be shallow. In reality, most modern gas fireplaces need around 20 inches of depth.

That’s why planning ahead with your builder is so important especially with linear fireplaces, cool wall kits, and modern finishes.

Case Study: The Oceanfront See-Through Fireplace

One of my favorite recent projects involved a customer with a home near the ocean. They wanted:

  • A modern gas fireplace
  • A minimal look
  • No obstruction of the ocean view

We helped them choose a modern see-through fireplace one side facing indoors, the other facing the ocean.

It became a transparent piece of art: you could see flames and the ocean behind them. At night, the combination is simply spectacular.

So, What Is the New Trend for Gas Fireplaces?

The answer is a combination of:

  • Direct vent gas fireplaces for maximum safety
  • Linear, frameless designs for a modern aesthetic
  • Cool wall systems that allow low TV placements
  • Fireplaces as design centerpieces instead of just heat sources
  • Traditional or modern finishes, depending on taste
  • Proper framing depth (usually around 20") to make everything work

In other words, the trend isn’t just a look it’s a combination of safety, modern design, technology, and better planning.

Need Help Choosing an On-Trend Gas Fireplace?

If you're building, remodeling, or exploring your options, I’m here to help. Send photos, plans, or questions I'll help you choose the perfect model for your space.

Request a quote or send your pictures: hello@luxuryfire.com