I am renovating my loft apartment and have been searching to no avail for a modern (stainless steel) vent free gas fireplace. I've also seen some cool glass or gel rocks that one could burn instead of fake logs. I thought about building my own fireplace. Any advice on:
1)Modern,european design fireplaces-vent free
2)Safe to build a vent-free free-standing fireplace?

I have researched the health and environmental aspects and am ok with my decision. My use of the fireplace will be minimum.

Considering that the electric fireplaces are safe, the prices of fuels are evening out with electricity, and you won't be using it that much, I'd say the easiest and safest way to go is with an electric fireplace. They look very much like a real fire.

http://www.dimplex.com/index.shtml

http://www.heatilator.com/products/fireplaces/electricFireplaces.asp

The assurance of making a safe fuel-burning fireplace is too remote. It is even not assured from a manufacturer.

www.heatpro.info heat/cool right-sizing

When citizens are entitled to food and medical care there is no poverty and no need for retirement security.

I'm also seeking a modern, ventless gas fireplace. Have you had any luck? I found a resource in Dwell Magazine, but it's around $4K with the stainless surround--and not vent-free. Hope someone can offer suggestions. Thanks!

The term 'modern' fireplace is somewhat like a monkey with pants.

http://hometips.com/cs-protected/guides/directvent.html

http://www.kozyheat.com/936_unit.htm

http://www.vermontcastings.com/content/products/productline.cfm?category=5&sc=44

http://www.nextag.com/direct-vent-gas-fireplace/search-html

http://www.heatilator.com/products/fireplaces/GasFireplaces.asp

www.heatpro.us FREE heat/cool right-sizing

Yes, you really have to find out the MAKE and MODEL to get good answers. There IS more than one machine made.

Hi. Well I have been searching for over a year. There are some very nice choices by Malm and fireorb.com if you can use a vented fireplace. I don't understand why manufacturers don't find a need for modern vent-free alternatives. I did find something that I am contemplating going with. I feel I can design my own modern design for the exterior and then use this system for a modern look. Look through the website there seems to be a lot of choice. Let me know if you go with it and vice versa. http://aquaticglassel.com/index.php?action=website-view&WebSiteID=237&WebPageID=5135

Thank you for your reply! We decided on the Wittus (www.wittus.com) Athos. It will not be available in gas until March, but we decided to wait. I appreciate your response and wish you the best on your project. S-