Electric Fireplaces in Interior Design: Types, Features & Stylish Build-Out Ideas
Electric fireplaces are one of the most popular interior features in modern home design — combining beauty, safety, and ease of installation. They offer the atmosphere of a real fire without smoke, gas, or ash. Just plug in, turn on, and enjoy the realistic flames, some models even include the subtle crackling sound of burning wood.
A close-up view of a built-in electric fireplace elegantly framed by glossy dark ceramic tiles. The glowing embers and realistic charred logs enhance the warmth and ambiance of the space. The surrounding matte black frame complements the contemporary design, while the moody tile texture adds a luxurious and sophisticated touch. Ideal for modern interior design projects focused on combining comfort and minimalism with high-end finishes.
In this guide, we’ll explore how electric fireplaces work, their key advantages and drawbacks, types of electric fireboxes, and the most beautiful ways to frame them with custom fireplace build-outs using wood, panels, or other creative materials.
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How Electric Fireplaces Work
An electric fireplace consists of two main components:
The firebox (insert): This is the electric unit that simulates flames, contains decorative logs or crystals, and may include heating elements.
The build-out or surround: This is the decorative framing that’s built around the firebox, which can be customized in endless ways — from modern minimalist to rustic farmhouse or sleek contemporary.
Modern electric fireplaces are far more than simple heaters. Many units include:
LED flame simulation with adjustable brightness
Multiple ember bed options: glass crystals, ceramic logs, pebbles, or driftwood
Sound effects (e.g., crackling fire)
Heat output control
Built-in air humidifiers or purifiers
Thermostats and timers
Smart home integration (Wi-Fi and app control)
Energy-efficient operation (typically using 120V outlets)
A luxurious living room interior featuring an ornate white electric fireplace framed by intricate damask wallpaper, embodying the sophistication of Art Deco style. The space is enriched with plush purple velvet seating, glossy black accents, and crystal chandeliers that reflect off a high-gloss black ceiling. The harmonious blend of classical ornamentation and modern electric heating creates an inviting, high-end ambiance ideal for timeless interiors with a bold personality.
Advantages of Electric Fireplaces
Electric fireplaces have become a go-to solution for homeowners, designers, and builders looking to create a stunning fireplace feature wall without complex installation. Key benefits include:
Affordable Installation: Much cheaper than traditional gas or wood-burning fireplaces.
Versatile Design Options: Can be installed almost anywhere with an outlet.
Safe for Families: No open flame, no fumes, and surfaces stay cool.
Eco-Friendly: No emissions, no soot, no chimney required.
Low Maintenance: No cleaning ash or flue systems.
Multi-Functional: Serves as a heater, light source, and focal point.
Year-Round Use: Can operate with flame-only mode in summer without heat.
Limitations of Electric Fireplaces
Despite their many benefits, electric fireplaces have some minor drawbacks:
Limited Heating Power: Suitable for supplemental heating only (typically up to 400–500 sq. ft.).
Artificial Flame: Even the most advanced units simulate fire — they don’t produce real flames.
Fan Noise (in low-end models): Budget units may produce slight humming during heating.
Types of Electric Fireplace Inserts
Understanding the types of inserts helps in planning the right fireplace wall design:
A striking three-sided electric fireplace takes center stage in this modern rustic living room, seamlessly integrated into a stone-clad column with a rich wood trim. The vivid blue flame effect adds a bold, contemporary touch to the cozy, nature-inspired setting. Surrounded by large windows showcasing a snowy mountain view, the space combines warm wooden accents, natural textures, and clean lines—perfectly balancing rustic charm with modern elegance. Ideal for mountain homes, cabins, and stylish retreats, this fireplace solution enhances both comfort and visual impact.
1. Single-Sided (Front View Only)
These are the most popular. They are installed flush with the wall or recessed inside a fireplace build-out, offering a clean and modern look. Available in widths from 36” to 100”+.
2. Three-Sided or Bay Fireplaces
Flame is visible from the front and both sides. These units are often used in custom media walls and lend themselves well to floating shelf designs or wraparound panels.
3. Four-Sided / See-Through Units
Flame visible from all sides — perfect for modern interiors where the fireplace acts as a central feature, room divider, or is installed in a glass or freestanding structure.
Fireplace Build-Out Design Options
A huge part of the visual impact comes from how you frame your fireplace. At Avileve, we specialize in crafting custom fireplace media walls, combining electric fireplace inserts with premium finishes like:
Shiplap or smooth painted panels
3D decorative wall panels (slatted, wave, or ridge texture)
Acoustic wood slats
Faux stone or brick veneer
Limewash finish
Trim molding for classic or modern look
Custom wood mantels or floating shelves
📌 Pro Tip: Visit our Fireplace & Media Wall Gallery for real project inspiration.
We recommend combining materials for a layered and elegant look. For example: faux stone or tile around the fireplace opening, with painted MDF or wood slats above the mantel. This combo creates contrast and depth.
This sleek electric fireplace is seamlessly built into a dark brick feature wall, anchoring a sophisticated hi-tech living space. The vivid red flame effect contrasts dramatically against the matte black frame and charcoal brick, creating a bold yet refined focal point. Minimalist furniture, sharp lines, and modern lighting elements further emphasize the clean and futuristic aesthetic of the room. Perfect for contemporary interiors, this fireplace design offers both style and comfort without compromising on high-tech elegance.
Style Recommendations by Interior Type
When designing your fireplace feature wall, make sure it fits the overall style of your space:
Modern / Contemporary: Minimalist build-out, wide electric insert, 3D panels or matte paint finishes.
Classic / Traditional: Square-shaped insert with detailed trim, symmetrical build-out, and possibly crown molding.
Scandinavian / Nordic: Light woods, whitewashed finishes, flat surfaces without ornamentation.
Farmhouse / Rustic: Shiplap or wood plank wall, natural wood mantel, neutral colors.
Mid-Century / Art Deco: Geometric shapes, bold materials, polished metal accents.
Pricing for Electric Fireplace Build-Outs
Electric fireplace walls are available in a wide range of prices depending on size, materials, and insert model. At Avileve, our fireplace build-out packages start around $5,500 and may range up to $9,500+ for larger multi-sided installations or premium materials.
For a deeper look, read our guide:
👉 How Much Does a Media Wall with or without Fireplace Cost in 2026?
Ready to Upgrade Your Living Space?
At Avileve, we offer full-service design and installation of custom fireplace feature walls, TV walls, accent walls, and decorative ceilings. We operate in Denver, Chicago, Orlando, Tampa, Atlanta, and Charlotte, and we ship select build-out packages nationwide.
🌐 Explore more at www.avileve.com