Hey cazza - we have a range of stories on fireplaces here, but I'll be sure to let the editorial team know you're particularly interested in gas fireplaces and the options :)

I've wondered this also. All outdoor heating Ive experienced required you to be fairly close to get real heat. But they look so goooood.

If you get good dry wood and for the right price I'd go with wood everytime. It burns hot, dry and clean. However not everyone has the ability to get the wood, nor has time to stack, bring it inside, etc.. I'd have a wood fire for the look and feel but just use it occasionally if regular wood supply is not possible. Electric reverse cycle is very efficient now and even better when used with solar power. Gas was the way to go for heating up until a few years ago now its back to electric again.... Keep the open fire and have electric reverse cycle as well! I'd keep the chimney but add some corbel's to it. Maybe the blue feature brick like on the window sills. You could make the chimney a feature rather than trying to do the opposite.

haven't had a Regency but wary of any gas log fire as we had a Cannon Log Fire and soot accumulated over the gas jets and had to be regularly taken out and cleaned ...the soot may have been due to bottle gas but ease or need for cleaning would be something to consider with any new heater