Safe, environmentally friendly, clean, ultra-efficient, and convenient. A gas fireplace accords you all these perks and more. If you want an entirely new fireplace for your living room or are looking to modernize a wood-burning fireplace you already have, a gas fireplace is an excellent choice.
With a gas fireplace in your living room, you will no longer deal with chopping wood, removing ashes, or tending flames. Sounds great, right? I agree, but hold on. Prior to setting up a gas fireplace, know what you are looking for.
In this article, you’ll find 12 ideas for a living room gas fireplace to inspire you.
12 Gas Fireplace Ideas For Living Room
1. Direct Vent Gas Fireplace
This gas fireplace derives air for combustion directly from outside via one vent and discharges exhaust gases directly outside through the other vent. The dual-vent design of this fireplace ensures the air inside your living room isn’t affected.
You can install a direct vent gas fireplace almost anywhere, including corners and walls, because it doesn’t need a chimney. If you prefer a traditional look, go for a direct-vent gas fireplace designed to mimic a traditional wood-burning fireplace.
This fireplace also comes in modern designs.
2. Ventless Gas Fireplace
Unlike a direct gas vent gas fireplace, a ventless one draws air from the inside but burns efficiently (they produce minimal emissions). However, this doesn’t mean this fireplace doesn’t have emissions, which is why you should ensure your living room is well-ventilated.
An Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) is fitted to most ventless gas fireplaces. So, as this fireplace burns in your living, the ODS will monitor the oxygen levels— it will automatically shut off the gas supply if the oxygen levels dip too low.
Some ventless gas fireplaces have catalytic converters. This technology makes these fireplaces more efficient and minimizes emissions by helping burn off byproducts, resulting in cleaner combustion.
This gas fireplace will work for you whether you have a contemporary or traditional-style living room. Ventless gas fireplace suits small living rooms.
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3. Fit A Gas Insert Into A Masonry Fireplace
Do away with a wood-burning fireplace by converting it into one that runs on gas by putting a gas insert into the firebox. Get the dimensions of the firebox so that you can get a gas insert that perfectly fits. In addition, make sure the model you pick meets your heating requirements.
Regarding aesthetics, opt for a sleek gas insert with a glass front for a modern look. Alternatively, pick a rustic design for a traditional look. When it comes to ventilation, gas inserts use a direct vent system or the chimney. Some designs are ventless.
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4. Get A Gas Log
A gas log offers another way to modify a masonry fireplace to make it a gas fireplace. It suits you if you want the look of a wood-burning fireplace without having to deal with ashes, sparks, and chopping and storing firewood. It runs on propane or natural gas.
You can either get a vented gas log (if you have a functional chimney) or a ventless gas log (works without a chimney. Ventless gas logs are more efficient than their vented counterparts because they don’t lose heat through a chimney. However, they produce smaller flames than the vented ones.
5. Traditional-Style Gas Fireplace
Reap the efficiency and convenience a gas fireplace offers without losing the classic fireplace’s charm by installing a traditional-style gas fireplace. Construct the surround with stone, tile, or wood and pair it with a hardwood, stone, or marble mantel. Give the mantel and surround a distressed or polished finish.
As for the fireplace, shape it rectangular or arched and line the interior with stone, ceramic tiles, or brick for a classic, authentic look. Also, arrange a ceramic or concrete log set that resembles real wood logs inside the firebox.
You can also install a black glass door and a wrought iron grate.
6. Linear Wall-Mounted Gas Fireplace
This fireplace, characterized by an elongated, horizontal shape, is a great idea for a modern, sleek living room. Mount a linear gas fireplace on a wall in your living to create a lovely focal point. Pick a slim-framed or frameless design to make it appear flush with the wall.
As for the fire media, suitable options include lava rock, tempered glass, river rocks, crystals, and glass. You can mount your TV above this fireplace.
7. See-Through Gas Fireplace
View the flames from different areas with a see-through gas fireplace. Divide an open floor plan living room with this fireplace. A see-through gas fireplace separates spaces subtly while maintaining the open floor plan design.
You can also install a see-through gas fireplace between different rooms in a closed floor plan, such as the dining and living room.
8. 3-Sided Gas Fireplace
This fireplace will instantly become the focal point of your open-floor living room if you install it. A 3-sided gas fireplace provides a panoramic view of the flames, thus enhancing the ambiance of your living room.
Choose a recessed installation because it will provide a streamlined, clean look. Tie everything together with built-in cabinetry shelves on either side of the fireplace.
9. A Suspended Gas Fireplace
Suspended gas fireplaces are visually stunning, elegant, and sleek—they are perfect for contemporary and modern living rooms. You can position this fireplace in different areas of your fireplace. For example, hang it at the center of your living room and arrange your furniture in a semi-circular or circular layout to make it an area for gathering and socializing.
10. A Freestanding Gas Stove
You can put a freestanding gas stove anywhere in your living room. Aside from placement flexibility, this fireplace is versatile, coming in different materials such as ceramic and iron. Since it is compact, it best suits small spaces.
Most freestanding gas stoves use direct venting. Consider placing a protective pad or hearth beneath the stove for heat protection.
11. Outdoor-Indoor Transition
Why install separate fireplaces to serve the living room and the outdoor living spaces when there’s a more convenient and affordable solution? Install a double-sided gas fireplace on a space that opens up to your outdoor areas.
With this setup, you can enjoy the fireplace’s warmth from the living room and the patio. Arrange the patio with furniture and décor that matches your living room décor.
12. Embrace Technology
For added convenience and comfort, go for a tech-equipped gas fireplace for your living room, especially if your home is already equipped with smart technology. A tech-equipped gas fireplace often comes with smart controls, thus letting you operate it remotely via your smart home system or smartphone.
You can control it without leaving the comfort of your chair if your gas fireplace has a remote control.
A smart gas fireplace lets you perform operations like setting timers on when to turn the fireplace on or off, tracking the energy consumption, setting the temperature, and even adjusting the flame height remotely.
Final Remarks
After reading this piece, I hope you can now comfortably pick a gas fireplace for your living room, whether that is a ventless or a directly vented model. In addition, do not compromise on style because there are many ideas you can comfortably execute, such as using colorful flames. Also, do not forget to take safety precautions, such as having a carbon monoxide detector in good condition.

Hi! I’m Susie, the creative mind behind Cozy Castle 101. I love sharing easy and simple ideas to make home and garden spaces cozy and inviting. From simple DIY projects and fun crafts to family-friendly recipes, I’m all about creating a warm, welcoming home where memories are made. Join me as I explore ways to add a bit of creativity and charm to everyday life!