Thanks @oklouise as always.

BTW, any idea what this item(1) might be in this picture?

How to mimic item(2) those woods? Is it picture or something?

it could be for ventilation or just a decorative feature...ask the supplier for advice about installation but most of the built in surrounds of this feature wall don't appear to have any useful purpose...think about storage shelves, cabinets and drawers for books, toys, games and "good" dinnerware and glasses etc

2. Is a niche with real logs used as decoration.

If it’s a gas fire the logs real or fake have no place there and would just get dusty. The also distract from the expensive fire place. I’d put drawers the whole width as face it we can always do with storage. Even to be able to seasonally swap cushions and throw rugs let alone toys and games.

Hi Guys,

There a problem here.... my builder says not to go with the 3 or 2 sided fireplace as its hard and very expensive to build the hanging structure/column above the fireplace as it will need beam or so which is atleast $2-3k itself + labor cost. Does anyone here has any idea if this is really a problem in setting up such overhead column of fireplace?

I would get the installation instructions for the fireplace you’re planning on having. They are usually available online and will have information on the surrounding construction required. Builders often have a reluctance to do something new, but they are also the one that has to build and warranty the work. You need to negotiate a position that you’re both happy with. If this column is just plasterboard and is just a cosmetic design feature it shouldn’t be that expensive. If the heater is installed as supported from the construction above rather self supporting from the base it may be a reasonable cost.

ask the builder which brand and style of electric fire he would install and how he would do it?

Thanks @oklouise @bigreader

This is the fireplace I am planning to buy.

https://modaliving.com.au/collections/electric-fireplaces/products/fenton-1600w-3-sided-60-inch-recessed-wall-mounted-electric-fireplace

Here are the measurements and guidance of installation:

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0030/8061/8051/files/FENTON_Dimension_1024x.jpg?v=1675478927

Could you please comment further?

I would think the installation cost quoted for wall build out for electric fire is reasonable. It’s basically a plug in electric appliance, but it is the structure that is more complicated. If you think of how much it is to build cabinetry, eg: display walls, then have the structure clad in your desired finish. All you do is plug the fire in and turn it on, the structure is the main build of the fire place.

Also think where you will install the separate shut off switch. You don’t want that ruining your overall streamline look.

From the looks of the instructions it doesn’t look like a beam would be required. But you need to show the installation and diagram to your builder and have a discussion of options.

i suggest that you be more flexible about the style of fireplace and ask the manufacturer and the builder for advice about how to achieve the look you want or recommend some one else ...regardless of our suggestions your builder has to be willing to do the work

This style of surround for your fire place might be cheaper to build. You do not need a big structure as your inspiration photo because with an electric fire place you don’t need the venting that is shown near the ceiling, the number 1 that you have highlighted. It is literally plug and play.