FAQS

Question 1

What is a glass-fronted fireplace?

Accepted Answer

A glass-fronted fireplace is a sealed fire with a heat-resistant glass panel across the opening. It offers high efficiency, controlled heat output, improved safety, and a clean, uninterrupted view of the flame.

Question 2

What is a bioethanol fireplace?

Accepted Answer

A bioethanol fireplace uses liquid bioethanol fuel to produce a real flame without the need for a traditional chimney or flue. It is often specified where architectural flexibility is important and a real flame is desired without structural constraints.

Question 3

What is a linear fireplace?

Accepted Answer

A linear fireplace is a wide, horizontal fire often used in contemporary interiors. It is typically integrated into feature walls or media walls to create a clean, modern focal point with strong architectural presence.

Question 4

What is a suspended fireplace?

Accepted Answer

A suspended fireplace is supported from above or from a concealed structural frame, creating a floating effect. These fireplaces are typically specified as sculptural architectural features and work particularly well in open-plan and double-height spaces.

Question 5

What is a double-sided fireplace?

Accepted Answer

A double-sided fireplace is a single fire designed to be viewed from two spaces. It is often used to divide open-plan areas while maintaining openness, visual continuity, and flow between rooms.

Question 6

What materials can be used for a bespoke fireplace?

Accepted Answer

A wide range of materials can be used, including natural stone, marble, steel, brass, bronze, concrete, and specialist finishes. Materials are selected not only for appearance, but for how they perform, age, and sit within the wider interior palette.

Question 7

Can a fireplace be designed as part of a media wall?

Accepted Answer

Yes — fireplaces can be successfully integrated into media walls, provided heat management, ventilation, and viewing comfort are properly considered. At Modus, these schemes are designed as one architectural composition rather than as separate elements.

Question 8

How do I choose the right fireplace design for my property?

Accepted Answer

The right fireplace design is guided by the architecture of the building, the way the room is used, and the role the fireplace needs to play. We work closely with clients, architects, and interior designers to ensure the design feels considered, proportioned, and fully integrated.

Question 9

What is a bespoke fireplace?

Accepted Answer

A bespoke fireplace is designed specifically for a project rather than selected from a standard model. At Modus, bespoke means developing a fireplace from first principles so that it responds to the architecture, lifestyle, and performance requirements of the space.

Question 10

Can I customise every element of my fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Yes. At Modus, every element of a fireplace can be tailored to suit the project. From burner technology and materials to proportions, finishes, and detailing, we create fireplaces that are fully aligned with the architecture and interior design of the space.

Question 11

Do you offer DEFRA approved fireplaces?

Accepted Answer

Yes we certainly do. The Domofocus, Gyrofocus and Slimfocus are DEFRA approved for smokeless zones. This means that they burn wood very cleanly, produce minimal smoke and meet specific UK emissions standards.

Question 12

Are bioethanol fireplaces safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when high-quality burners are used and the fireplace is correctly designed. As with any real-flame appliance, ventilation, safe refuelling, and thoughtful integration are essential.

Question 13

Can I put a TV above my fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only when the fireplace is specifically designed to allow it. Heat management, clearances, and ventilation must all be carefully considered to protect the television and ensure long-term performance.

Question 14

Do fireplaces provide enough heat?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when correctly specified. Gas fireplaces in particular can provide meaningful, controllable heat, while other fireplace types may be used more for atmosphere or as supplementary heating.

Question 15

What is the safest type of fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Safety depends on correct design, specification, and installation. In many cases, modern glass-fronted gas fireplaces and electric fireplaces offer the highest level of control and predictability when properly integrated into the project.

Question 16

Do I need a chimney or flue to have a fireplace?

Accepted Answer

No. Many modern fireplaces do not require a traditional chimney. Balanced flue gas systems, electric fireplaces, and bioethanol fireplaces all offer flexible installation options for homes without existing flues.

Question 17

What is the most sustainable fireplace option?

Accepted Answer

There is no single answer for every project. Sustainability depends on how the fireplace is used, how the building performs, and which technology is most appropriate. High-efficiency gas, electric, and carefully specified bioethanol systems can all be suitable depending on the context.

Question 18

Will a fireplace add value to my home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A well-designed fireplace can add both emotional and market value to a home, particularly when it is architecturally integrated and designed as a permanent feature rather than an afterthought.

Question 19

How much does a bespoke fireplace cost in the UK?

Accepted Answer

The cost of a bespoke fireplace depends on the complexity of the design, the materials chosen, and the burner technology specified. At Modus, each fireplace is individually developed, so pricing reflects the scope and ambition of the project. Prices generally start from £6,500+.

Question 20

Do I need a gas supply for an outdoor fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Outdoor fireplaces can be fuelled by gas, bioethanol, or wood. Gas is often preferred for reliability, ease of use, and heat output, but the right solution depends on the space and how it will be used.

Question 21

What is the best outdoor fireplace for my space?

Accepted Answer

The best outdoor fireplace depends on layout, intended use, and the level of heat required. Fire tables, fire pits, fire bowls, and bespoke outdoor fireplaces can all work effectively when specified in relation to the architecture and environment.

Question 22

Can Modus advise during the design stage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly advise during the early design stages of a project, helping to shape fireplace concepts, assess technical feasibility, and guide specification. This ensures the fireplace is fully integrated into the scheme from the outset.

Question 23

Do you have a showroom?

Accepted Answer

We have 4 fireplaces in a furniture showroom in North London (FCI London) where we can meet you by appointment only. We also offer face-to-face design consultations at the project site — please note these are at a cost which is then redeemable against any order. We have other installations in various public spaces where some fireplaces can be viewed — get in touch to find out more.

Question 24

Do you offer CPD sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide CPD sessions for architects, interior designers, and garden designers, covering indoor and outdoor fireplace design, fuel types, legislation, safety, and current technology. Sessions can also be tailored to the needs of individual studios.

Question 25

Do you undertake international projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes totally! We work internationally and have recently undertaken projects in France, Malta, The UAE, Qatar and Africa.

Question 26

Do you work with architects and interior designers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work closely with architects, interior designers, garden designers, and developers, supporting projects from early design stages through to installation. Our role is to help ensure that design intent is matched by technical precision, compliance, and long-term performance.

Question 27

Where in the United Kingdom do you work?

Accepted Answer

We are based from our design studio in London but we work all over the United Kingdom, servicing clients from all regions.

Question 28

Do bioethanol fires smell?

Accepted Answer

Bioethanol fires are designed so that fumes are emitted harmlessly into the room rather than being extracted via a flue system. As such, there can be a noticeable odour when the fire is running. At Modus, we only use premium quality burners with technology designed to minimise emissions and odour.

Question 29

Are portable gas fire pits and fire tables safe to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when correctly specified and properly maintained. The portable gas fire features we work with are engineered with high-performance burners, controlled ignition, and integrated cylinder housings designed to meet current UK and European safety standards. Unlike open wood fires, the flame is fully controllable, with no flying embers and no risk of unintended ignition from spark. As with any gas appliance, appropriate clearances from combustible materials, adequate ventilation, and routine maintenance remain essential. At Modus, we specify only proven systems and ensure each design is technically resolved for safe, reliable performance over the long term.

Question 30

Do outdoor fireplaces produce heat?

Accepted Answer

The heat output of an outdoor fire will vary depending on the fuel type, environment, and positioning. When seated nearby, it provides a pleasant level of radiant warmth; however, it should not be relied upon as a primary heat source where consistent heat is a key requirement.

Question 31

Do outdoor wall fireplaces require planning permission or a flue?

Accepted Answer

Generally, outdoor fireplaces do not require planning permission, though nuances can apply depending on the situation. Wall fires can be designed without the need for a flue.

FAQS

Fireplace Types

FAQ’s

Design & Bespoke Fireplaces

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Practical Considerations

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Cost, Value & Sustainability

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Outdoor Fireplaces

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Working With Modus

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