Living Fires

How to Choose the Perfect Stove for Your Scottish Home

Thinking about installing a stove in your home, but unsure which fuel type is right for you? You’re not alone. Choosing the right stove is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a new fireplace or heating feature, especially in Scotland, where warmth, efficiency, and reliability really matter.

At Living Fires, we help customers every day who are weighing up wood‑burning, gas, and electric stoves. This updated guide brings together practical advice, modern considerations, and expert insight to help you choose a stove that looks right, feels right, and works beautifully in your home.

Start with the Size: Why Heat Output Matters

Before choosing a style or fuel type, it’s important to think about stove size and heat output. A stove that’s too powerful can overheat a room, while one that’s too small won’t provide the comfort you’re looking for.

Stove output is measured in kilowatts (kW), and the right size depends on:

Room dimensions and ceiling height
How well your home is insulated
Whether the stove is heating one room or contributing to whole‑house warmth

As a general guide, most living rooms need between 4–7kW, but every home is different. Our team will always calculate this with you to ensure your stove heats efficiently and comfortably without wasted energy.

Choosing the Right Fuel Type for Your Home

One of the biggest decisions when choosing a stove is how you want it to work day‑to‑day. Do you enjoy the ritual of lighting a fire, or would you prefer instant warmth at the touch of a button? Each fuel type offers its own benefits.

Gas & Electric Stoves: Convenience Without Compromise

For a fuss-free flame, gas and electric stoves are a popular choice. Advances in design mean modern models are often virtually indistinguishable from traditional fires, offering realistic flames and impressive heat output without the mess.

Gas stoves provide:

Instant heat and controllable flames
High efficiency and consistent warmth
A real flame experience with minimal maintenance

Electric stoves are ideal if:

Your home doesn’t have a chimney or flue
You want a simple plug-in solution
You’d like flame visuals that can be enjoyed with or without heat

Both options suit modern lifestyles and work well in apartments, extensions, and contemporary Scottish homes.

Wood‑Burning Stoves: Timeless Warmth and Efficiency

Wood-burning stoves remain a favourite for many homeowners and for good reason. They offer a traditional flame, excellent heat efficiency, and a comforting sense of independence.

One major advantage is that wood-burning stoves can continue to provide heat during power cuts, something many Scottish homeowners value during winter weather.

Modern wood burners are highly efficient, with up to 80% of the heat generated delivered directly into the room, and they continue to radiate warmth even after the fire has burned down.

It’s important to burn the right fuel. Always look for logs with the ‘Ready to Burn’ logo, which confirms a moisture content of 20% or less. This reduces smoke, improves performance, and helps protect both your stove and the environment.

Matching Your Stove to Your Home Style

A stove should complement your home as well as heat it. Scottish homes vary hugely, from stone cottages and period townhouses to modern new builds and open-plan living spaces.

Traditional homes often suit classic or softly styled stoves with a timeless feel
Cottages benefit from compact designs that provide warmth without overwhelming the room
Modern interiors pair beautifully with clean-lined, minimalist stoves or inset designs

Choosing the right finish, proportions, and installation style ensures your stove becomes a natural focal point rather than an afterthought.

Designed for Scottish Weather

Scotland’s damp, cold climate makes high-efficiency stoves especially important. A modern stove helps maintain a steady, comfortable temperature while using fuel responsibly.

All new wood-burning stoves must meet Ecodesign regulations, ensuring lower emissions and improved efficiency. Look out for the SIA Ecodesign Ready label when choosing your stove; it’s a reliable indicator of modern performance standards.

Installation & Safety Considerations

Professional installation is essential for both safety and performance. Key considerations include:

Correct flue placement and ventilation
Compliance with current building regulations
Suitability for your property type

Whichever fuel you choose (except electric), all combustion appliances can produce carbon monoxide. Fitting a carbon monoxide detector in the same room as your stove is essential for peace of mind.

At Living Fires, we guide you through every step, from initial advice to installation and aftercare.

Let Living Fires Help You Choose with Confidence

Choosing the perfect stove is about balancing warmth, efficiency, design, and lifestyle. With expert guidance and a carefully selected range of stoves for Scottish homes, Living Fires helps you make a confident, informed choice.

Visit our showroom or speak to our team to explore your options and find a stove that will keep your home warm, welcoming, and beautifully styled for years to come.

Introducing Onyx Fires: British Design Meets Modern Fire Technology

At Living Fires, we love sharing brands that combine thoughtful design, dependable performance, and a touch of elegance and Onyx Fires fits that description beautifully. Whether you’re researching modern fireplaces or looking for a stunning focal point for your living space, Onyx offers a compelling range of premium fires and stoves designed to elevate every room they’re in.

A Brand Built on Design, Innovation & Quality

Onyx is a luxury British brand with more than 40 years of experience in crafting high-quality stoves and fires. As part of the esteemed Stovax Heating Group, Onyx products are thoughtfully engineered using cutting-edge technology and industry-leading research and development

What sets Onyx apart is this balance of form and function, with products that are as beautiful to look at as they are effective at delivering warmth and atmosphere. From wood burning and multi-fuel stoves to the latest electric and gas fires, the Onyx range caters to diverse home heating needs while always making a design statement.

A Range Designed for Modern Living

Onyx’s collection includes an impressive variety of styles and technologies, meaning there’s something for traditional interiors and contemporary homes alike:

Wood Burning & Multi-Fuel Stoves , such as the sleek Olympus and heritage-inspired Athos ranges, offer efficient heat and refined aesthetics.
Gas Fires include premium options like the Eclipse and Avanti series, crafted to deliver rich, realistic flames and comfort with sophisticated control systems.
Electric Fires. The Avanti, Fusion, and Orbit electric fires bring advanced flame visuals and customizable ambience to homes without chimneys, making them ideal for modern apartments or renovations.

Whether you’re drawn to authentic wood flame warmth or the flexibility and convenience of gas or electric fires, Onyx offers quality at every step. Their products are also backed by a network of specialist retailers like Living Fires, who can guide you on performance, installation, and after-sales support.

Stylish Focal Points for Your Home

One thing customers often mention is how Onyx fires become natural focal points in a room. Sleek lines, immersive flame effects, and refined finishes mean these appliances don’t just heat your home, they enhance it.

For example, Onyx gas fires feature advanced burner systems and non-reflective glass that accentuates the visual depth of the flames, creating a captivating display whether your interior is classic or contemporary.

Meanwhile, electric models like the Onyx Avanti range offer flexible installation with single-, two-, or three-sided options, and cutting-edge illumination effects that can be enjoyed with or without heat, perfect for year-round ambience.

Engineered for Today’s Homes

Aside from aesthetics, Onyx products are designed with real-world performance in mind. Many models feature efficient heat outputs, intuitive controls (often including remote or app operation), and installation options that suit both new and older homes.

Choosing a fireplace or stove is about more than picking a pretty design; it’s about selecting something that performs reliably, fits your space, and enhances your lifestyle. At Living Fires, we’re here to help you explore the Onyx range and find the right solution for your room size, heating needs, and design vision.

Discover Onyx with Living Fires

If you’re curious about Onyx Fires and how they might elevate your home, pop into our showroom. Our team can walk you through the range, talk through the differences between wood burning, gas, and electric options, and help you find something that feels exactly right for your space.

From classic warmth to modern elegance, Onyx offers a British-designed fire experience that’s both performance-led and beautifully considered.

Why White and Cream Fires Are the New Home Trend

As interiors continue to move towards lighter, calmer spaces, white and cream stoves and fireplaces are firmly stepping into the spotlight. With Pantone’s 2026 Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer, setting the tone for soft, versatile neutrals, it’s no surprise that lighter-coloured stoves are becoming an increasingly popular choice for modern homes.

At Living Fires, we’re seeing some of our customers move away from the traditional black stove in favour of finishes that feel warmer, brighter, and more design-led – without compromising on performance.

Why Choose White or Cream?

Stoves and fireplaces have long been associated with classic black finishes, largely due to soot and maintenance concerns. Thanks to significant advances in clean burn stove technology, along with high-performance gas and electric stoves, this is no longer a limitation.

Today’s white and cream fires are designed to stay looking their best while delivering excellent efficiency and controllable heat. This makes them a practical as well as stylish option for many homes.

Inspired by Cloud Dancer: Soft Neutrals That Last

**Onyx Avanti 110RW** installed with the Milazzo Suite in white

Pantone’s Cloud Dancer reflects a wider interior trend towards gentle, airy tones that feel calm, timeless, and easy to live with. White and cream fires fit beautifully into this aesthetic, offering a subtle focal point that enhances a space rather than dominating it.

These lighter finishes work especially well in:

Smaller rooms, where darker stoves may feel visually heavy
Open-plan living spaces seeking balance and light
Homes with neutral, natural, or layered colour palettes
Interiors inspired by Scandinavian or eco-conscious design

A light stove or fireplace can also create a striking contrast against darker feature walls, stone surrounds, or natural materials such as wood and slate.

A Fire That Works With Your Interior Style

Gallery Collection Classic 8 ECO in warm white

One of the biggest advantages of white and cream stoves or fireplaces is their versatility. They sit just as comfortably in a traditional cottage as they do in a contemporary new-build.

Whether paired with a classic fireplace surround or installed as a freestanding statement piece, these stoves bring a sense of softness and considered design that complements modern living.

Practical, Efficient, and Designed for Modern Homes

Customers often ask whether a lighter-coloured fire is practical, and the answer is yes. With correct installation, good fuel choice, and regular care, modern fires in white or cream finishes are easy to maintain.

Many models across our ranges also offer:

High efficiency heat output
Clean glass systems for a clear flame picture
Compatibility with well-insulated and airtight homes
Options across wood burning, gas, and electric stoves

Our team at Living Fires will always guide you towards the right fire for your room size, lifestyle, and heating needs.

White & Cream Options at Living Fires

White and cream stoves and fireplaces are available across selected ranges from our trusted suppliers. Some popular options include:

Arada Lagom 4 Ceramic
Arada Ecoburn 5 Widescreen in Straw
Onyx Avanti 110RW installed with the Milazzo Suite in white
Gallery Collection Classic 8 ECO in warm white

Each offers its own balance of design, efficiency, and performance.

Is a White or Cream Fire Right for Your Home?

If you’re drawn to lighter interiors, natural tones, and timeless design, a light-coloured fire could be a beautiful choice. With expert advice and a carefully selected range, Living Fires helps you explore options that look right, feel right, and perform reliably for years to come.

Visit our showroom or speak to our team to find out whether a white or cream fire inspired by today’s design trends, including Cloud Dancer, could be the perfect fit for your home.

Introducing Nordpeis Stoves: Scandinavian Design, Built for Modern Homes

At Living Fires, we believe a stove should do more than heat a room. It should enhance how you live in your home – visually, practically, and emotionally. That’s why we’re proud to offer Nordpeis stoves, a brand known for clean Scandinavian design, clever engineering, and a deep understanding of how people really use their living spaces.

Whether you’re renovating a Scottish cottage, upgrading a modern new-build, or looking for an efficient and stylish heating solution, Nordpeis brings together form, function, and reliability in a way that feels effortlessly modern.

Who Are Nordpeis?

Nordpeis is a leading Scandinavian stove manufacturer, with roots in Norway and a reputation across Europe for high-quality wood burning stoves and fires. Their designs are inspired by Nordic living, where warmth, simplicity, and connection to the home are central to everyday life.

Rather than focusing on trends, Nordpeis stoves are designed to be timeless. Clean lines, balanced proportions, and carefully considered details mean they sit comfortably in both contemporary interiors and more traditional homes.

Designed for Real Homes

One of the reasons Nordpeis works so well for Living Fires customers is their practical approach to design. These stoves aren’t just beautiful to look at, they’re made for how people actually heat and use their homes.

Key features you’ll find across the Nordpeis range include:

High efficiency and clean burning performance, helping you get the most heat from your fuel
Large glass viewing panels for an impressive flame picture
Flexible installation options, including corner, freestanding, and wall-mounted designs
Excellent heat output control, ideal for well-insulated modern homes

Many Nordpeis stoves are also designed with external air compatibility, making them suitable for newer, airtight properties, something we’re often asked about by customers across Scotland moving into newbuild developments.

Scandinavian Style, Scottish Living

Scandinavian stoves are a natural fit for Scottish homes. Nordpeis designs reflect a climate where warmth is essential, but so is light, space, and comfort.

Their stoves work beautifully in:

Open-plan living spaces
Extensions and garden rooms
Traditional stone cottages
Modern apartments and new builds

The understated design allows the fire to become a focal point without overpowering the room, perfect if you want a stove that feels considered, calm, and long-lasting.

Efficiency, Sustainability, and Peace of Mind

Nordpeis places strong emphasis on environmental performance. Their wood-burning stoves are designed to meet, and often exceed, current efficiency and emissions standards.

When paired with the right advice on fuel choice and correct installation, a Nordpeis stove can be an efficient, responsible way to heat your home while enjoying the comfort of a real flame.

At Living Fires, we guide you through the full process, from choosing the right stove for your space, to ensuring it’s installed safely and in line with regulations.

Why Choose Nordpeis from Living Fires?

Choosing a stove is as much about trust and guidance as it is about design. Our team has extensive experience helping customers select the right wood-burning stove in Scotland, taking into account heat requirements, property type, and lifestyle.

When you choose a stove through Living Fires, you benefit from:

Expert, honest advice tailored to your home
A carefully curated range of high-quality stoves
Professional installation and ongoing support
A showroom experience that helps you visualise your options with confidence

Discover Nordpeis at Living Fires

If you’re drawn to clean lines, thoughtful design, and reliable performance, Nordpeis is a brand well worth exploring. Visit our showroom or speak to our team to find out whether a Nordpeis stove could be the right fit for your home.

We’re here to help you choose a fire or stove that doesn’t just look good but feels right, now and for years to come.

The Best Cosy Spots Near Fife (and not far from Edinburgh) to Warm Up by a Fireplace

Imagine stepping inside after a chilly Scottish walk, the fire crackling beside you, warmth wrapping around you like a hug. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite cosy venues, including two extra special spots with Living Fires installations!

The Red Lion Inn, Culross

Step through the door of this historic gem and feel time slow down. With its painted ceilings and classic pub menu, The Red Lion Inn is beloved by locals and visitors alike. It was saved by the community and features a beautiful Living Fires stove installation. The perfect location for settling in with a hearty steak pie or sticky toffee pudding after exploring this picturesque, historical Royal Burgh.

Fire Station Creative, Dunfermline

This isn’t just a café; it’s an artful haven inside an Art Deco former fire station. With a roaring Firebelly Stove, installed by Living Fires, quietly radiating warmth in the café and creative energy in every corner, it’s a place to enjoy good food, live events, and local art.

The Dreel Tavern, Anstruther

Low stone walls, a grand open fire, and seafood platters make The Dreel Tavern feel like a snug retreat by the sea. It’s the perfect spot for warming up after a coastal walk, with local spirit and charm in equal measure.

The Ship Inn, Elie

Just steps from the beach, The Ship Inn exudes seaside cosiness. Authentic nautical decor, a log fire, and views out to the shore make this a favourite destination for both the soul and senses.

The Boar’s Head, Auchtermuchty

A country pub gem in a quaint village, The Boar’s Head pairs traditional pub fare with a snug fire-lit ambience. A true countryside classic that feels like home.

The Covenanter Hotel, Falkland

With its small, intimate bar and dog-friendly welcome, The Covenanter offers a charming blend of history and hospitality. The warmth goes beyond the fire and into its service and character.

St Andrews Brewing Co, St Andrews

Known locally as the “Brew Co,” this spot offers 18 beers on tap and tucked-away sofas in front of a crackling log fire, an ideal place to unwind after a stroll through St Andrews’ medieval streets.

What to Expect at Each Spot

Ambience: These venues all ooze rustic charm; think stone walls, wooden beams, and glowing fires that instantly soothe.
Food & Drink: These pubs and cafés all serve great grub ranging from locally sourced seafood and hearty pies to fresh brunch options and good brews.
Unique Features: From community-owned pubs, art galleries in converted fire stations, to historic inns with tales that echo through the stones, there’s a place fro everyone to enjoy a meal out at the fireside.

Specials Features Worth Mentioning

The Red Lion Inn serves ales named after Culross landmarks, adding local flavour to your pint. These are made by a small volunteer-run Community Brewery that has recently started in the upstairs of the Inn.
Fire Station Creative offers a great range of events from exhibition openings and fireside music sessions to family-friendly quiz nights, making it a great choice for a creative winter night out.
The Dreel Tavern really is a seafood-lover’s dream by the burn with warm fire and seasonal specials.

Why These Spots Matter

Each venue embodies the heart of winter cosiness in Scotland, and Living Fires is proud to be part of two. Whether through design, warmth, or community spirit, these places offer more than comfort; with focal fireplaces, they have made the perfect settings for gathering and good times over the chilly winter season.

How to Create a Scandinavian-Inspired Fireplace Look

There’s something effortlessly cosy about Scandinavian interiors. The calm, uncluttered space, natural textures, and glowing warmth make any home feel inviting even on the coldest Scottish winter days. And at the heart of all of these spaces? The fireplace.

At Living Fires, we help homeowners combine style and function with fires from our trusted suppliers like Stovax & Gazco, Nordpeis, and Esse, so your fireplace can be both beautiful and efficient.

Here’s how to achieve a Scandinavian-inspired look in your own home:

1. Neutral Colours

Scandinavian interiors thrive on soft, neutral palettes. Think whites, greys, and natural wood tones that create a sense of calm and space. A fireplace framed by pale walls or a light timber mantel instantly feels airy and inviting, letting the warmth of the fire become the focal point.

2. Minimalist Design

Less is more. Keep mantels uncluttered and surfaces clean, highlighting the stove or fireplace itself. Sleek designs from Onyx or Faber Fires work beautifully in these spaces, letting the fire take centre stage without competing with too many decorative elements. Simplistic mirrors with natural wood frames (or even frameless) over mantels work well to help reflect light around the room.

3. Hygge Elements

The Scandinavian concept of hygge is all about comfort and cosiness. Layer soft, neutral-coloured throws and cushions in natural fabrics, add textured rugs, and scatter plain white candles around the hearth for a warm, welcoming glow. Even simple additions like a woven basket for logs (or extra blankets if you have an electric or gas fireplace) or a chunky knit pouffe enhance the sense of homely tranquillity.

4. Functional Aesthetics

Scandinavian style blends form and function. Your fireplace should not only look good but also deliver efficient heat. Our suppliers offer fires that combine both sleek design with outstanding performance, so your home stays cosy without compromising style.

5. Inspirational Interiors

Look to Scandinavian homes for ideas: clean lines, muted colours, and layered textures. Whether it’s a minimalist white living room with a black stove as a striking contrast, or a natural timber space with soft grey accents, these interiors show how simplicity can create warmth and personality.

Bring Scandinavian Warmth to Your Home

With the right fire and styling, you can transform your fireplace into a serene, hygge-inspired haven. At Living Fires, we’re proud to offer a fantastic range of fires from our portfolio of suppliers, perfect for helping you choose a fire that suits your needs and creating a space that’s stylish, cosy, and entirely your own.

This winter, embrace simplicity, warmth, and the timeless elegance of Scandinavian design all from the comfort of your own home.

The Benefits of Installing a Stove in Your Home This Winter

Picture this: it’s a frosty evening, the wind is howling outside, and you step into your living room where a glowing stove is radiating warmth. The air feels dry and comfortable, there’s a gentle crackle of logs, and suddenly winter feels less like a season to endure and more like a season to find delight in.

That’s the difference a stove can make. At Living Fires, we work with trusted suppliers, including Arada, Mendip Stoves, Hunter Stoves, Esse, Clock, and many more, to help you create a home that’s not just warm but welcoming.

Here are some of the benefits you’ll enjoy when you install a stove this winter:

1. Energy Savings

When the cold sets in, heating bills can skyrocket. A well-chosen stove helps you cut costs by reducing your reliance on central heating, keeping the room you use most warm and comfortable. Brands like Burley Appliances and Charlton & Jenrick lead the way in energy efficiency, giving you powerful heat with lower fuel use. Over the course of a winter, those savings really add up.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

A stove isn’t just practical, it’s a statement. Whether you love the sleek, modern look of Onyx or Faber Fires, or the traditional charm of Clock and Dovre, a stove adds instant character to your home. It becomes a natural gathering point, the place where family and friends come together on chilly evenings. And beyond comfort, it can even enhance the value of your property.

3. Better Heat Distribution

If you’ve ever sat by an open fire and realised most of the warmth is disappearing up the chimney, you’ll appreciate the difference a stove makes. Modern fires, like those from Stovax & Gazco, are designed to distribute heat evenly and efficiently throughout your space. Many feature clever convection systems, so the whole room warms up faster and stays warmer for longer.

4. Eco-Friendly Features

A roaring fire doesn’t have to come with a guilty conscience. Many of our suppliers, including Hunter Stoves and Arada, design models that meet EcoDesign standards and are DEFRA-approved for smoke control areas. That means cleaner burns, fewer emissions, and a smaller carbon footprint all while you enjoy the comfort of a real flame.

5. Health Benefits

There’s nothing cosy about a damp, draughty room. By providing consistent, dry heat, stoves can reduce condensation and eliminate cold spots, creating a healthier, more comfortable living environment. In the long, wet Scottish winters, this makes a real difference, especially for families who want to feel snug through the season.

Find Your Perfect Stove

At Living Fires, we stock a wide range of stoves from suppliers. From modern statement pieces to timeless classics, we’ll help you find a stove that fits your home, your lifestyle, and your winter rituals.

So this year, instead of dreading the cold, imagine welcoming it with a stove that turns your home into the warm, glowing heart of winter.

How to Style Your Fireplace for a Cosy Winter in Scotland

There’s nothing quite like a Scottish winter. The evenings draw in early, the wind rattles the windows, and the thought of stepping outside feels far less appealing than staying tucked up on the sofa. That’s when your fireplace comes into its own, not just as a source of warmth, but as the heart of your home.

At Living Fires, we know that the right styling can make your fireplace more than functional it can transform it into a true winter sanctuary. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of yours this season:

Seasonal Décor

Bring the outside in with nature-inspired touches. Pinecones, evergreen sprigs, or even a rustic garland can instantly add warmth and charm. Pair them with soft candlelight or twinkling fairy lights interwoven or in a glass jar to create a magical glow that complements the fire itself. If you’ve chosen a sleek, modern stove like those from Onyx or Faber Fires, minimal accessories such as a tall floor vase featuring a slim, single branch can enhance the clean lines, while more traditional models from Arada or Esse look beautiful framed by seasonal greenery.

Soft Furnishings

Nothing says winter comfort quite like layers. Drape a chunky knit throw over the arm of a sofa, pile up cushions in rich textures, and roll out a thick rug to sink your toes into. This layering not only adds warmth but also draws attention to the fireplace as the room’s natural gathering place. A glowing fire paired with cosy furnishings creates a scene you’ll never want to leave.

Fireplace Accessories

Practical can still be beautiful. A woven log basket filled with neatly stacked wood, a set of brass tools, or a stylish fire screen adds character and completes the look. Brands like Clock and Hunter Stoves design models that look fantastic when paired with traditional accessories.

More modern stoves and fires like those from Barbas Bellfires or Leaf Stoves shine with sleek, minimalist styling. A steel log holder in a contemporary design is a great choice.

Lighting Tips

The secret to ambience lies in layers of light. Use soft, warm-toned lamps around the room to complement the natural glow of the fire. Floor lamps, candle-lit lanterns, or even a string of subtle LED fairy lights around the mantelpiece can all create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The goal is to make the fire the star, but let the surrounding light enhance its glow.

Practical Advice

Finally, think about how your furniture is arranged. Positioning seating so it faces the fireplace ensures it becomes the true focal point of the room. Whether you’re hosting guests for mulled wine and jigsaws (we hear it’s a trend!) or curling up with a good book, the fire should always be at the centre of your winter living space.

Make Your Fireplace the Heart of Winter

At Living Fires, we stock a wide range of stoves and fires from trusted suppliers including Arada, Esse, Stovax & Gazco, Nordpeis, and many more. Whatever your style, modern, traditional, or something in between, we can help you find the perfect fireplace to build your winter décor around.

This season, don’t just keep the cold out. Create a space that feels warm, welcoming, and perfectly styled for a Scottish winter.

Exploring Historical Fireplaces in Fife and Edinburgh

From grand castles to traditional cottages, fireplaces have long been at the heart of Scottish homes. More than just a source of heat, they were a symbol of comfort, status, and craftsmanship. In Fife and Edinburgh, you can still find extraordinary examples of historical fireplaces, each telling a story about the people who used them in their daily lives.

At Living Fires, we believe exploring these designs is a wonderful way to gather inspiration for your own home. Here are some of the most fascinating fireplaces you can discover nearby.

Unique Features of Historical Fireplaces

Scottish fireplaces have always reflected both practicality and artistry. In historic properties, you’ll often see:

Intricate stone carving from thistles and family crests to religious symbols.
Ornate timber mantels and surrounds, handcrafted in oak or walnut (sometimes a bit dark and imposing!).
Decorative tiles and ironwork. Victorian fireplaces, in particular, are known for their colourful tiles and detailed cast-iron inserts.
Grand proportions. In castles and stately homes, fireplaces were vast enough to roast whole animals, often serving as the hub of family and community life.

Where to See Them

If you’re looking for inspiration, there are several must-visit sites in Fife and Edinburgh:

Edinburgh Castle: Step into the Great Hall and you’ll find one of the most impressive stone fireplaces in Scotland, built to warm soldiers and royalty alike. Its scale and intricate detailing make it a highlight for history and design lovers.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh: The official Scottish residence of the monarch, Holyroodhouse is filled with fireplaces that balance regal elegance with everyday function.
Kellie Castle, Fife: A gem cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, Kellie Castle boasts beautifully preserved plasterwork and timber fireplaces, showing the craftsmanship of the 17th century.
Culross Palace, Fife: This striking ochre-coloured building offers a fascinating glimpse of 16th and 17th-century domestic life, including painted rooms with characterful stone fireplaces that once heated merchant families’ homes.
Abbot House, Dunfermline: The oldest surviving house in Dunfermline, Abbot House contains charming examples of early Scottish fireplaces that reflect both function and rustic beauty.

The Cultural Significance of Fireplaces in Scotland

Fireplaces were more than a source of heat, they were the heart of the household. Families gathered around them to share food, warmth, and stories. In castles, fireplaces symbolised power and wealth, often placed in the grandest rooms as a display of status.

As Scottish homes evolved, so too did fireplaces: from vast medieval hearths to the elegant Georgian and Victorian surrounds we admire today. Each style reveals something about the era’s values, whether it was function, fashion, or innovation.

Finding Inspiration for Your Own Home

Exploring historic fireplaces in Fife and Edinburgh is not only a great day out, but also a way to spark ideas for your own space. While we don’t need towering stone hearths anymore, many of the design principles, natural materials, craftsmanship, and statement-making presence, are still just as relevant.

At Living Fires, our showrooms in Edinburgh and Dunfermline showcase a wide range of stoves and fireplaces, from classic designs inspired by tradition to sleek modern models from trusted suppliers like Stovax & Gazco, Morso, and Barbas Bellfires. Visiting us means you can see today’s craftsmanship up close, just as you would in a castle or stately home.

Visit, Explore, and Imagine

Whether you’re strolling through the halls of Edinburgh Castle or stepping into a restored Fife manor, pay attention to the fireplaces. Notice the detail, the scale, and the role they once played in daily life. Then, imagine how you might bring a touch of that history and ambience into your own home.

We’d love to welcome you to our showrooms in Dunfermline or Edinburgh, where you can explore modern fireplaces and stoves in person, and find a design that feels just as timeless.

How to Burn Wood Responsibly: A Guide to Sustainable Heating

Wood-burning stoves remain one of the most popular and atmospheric ways to heat a home in Scotland. But with air quality and environmental standards becoming more important, burning wood responsibly is essential, both for efficiency and for sustainability. At Living Fires, we work with leading manufacturers such as Morso, Stovax & Gazco, Arada, and Hunter Stoves, all of whom design modern appliances to meet today’s eco-standards. Here’s our guide to getting the very best from your stove, while staying mindful of the environment.

**Hunter Stoves – Herald 5 Eco, double door**

Choosing the Right Wood

The wood you burn makes a huge difference to performance. Always look for:

Seasoned or kiln-dried logs with a moisture content below 20%. Wet wood produces more smoke, tar, and harmful particulates.
Locally sourced timber, which reduces transport emissions and supports the local economy.
Hardwoods such as ash, oak, or beech, which burn longer and hotter than softwoods.

Storing Your Fuel Correctly

Even the best logs won’t burn well if they’re stored badly.

Keep logs in a well-ventilated store, ideally off the ground to prevent damp rising.
Protect your fuel from rain with a roof or cover, while leaving the sides open for airflow.
Stack your wood loosely rather than tightly, so air can circulate.

A simple log store in your garden can make all the difference, ensuring your fuel is always ready to go.

Efficient Burning Techniques

Modern stoves from brands like Barbas Bellfires, Nordpeis, and Arada are designed to be highly efficient, but your burning technique matters too.

Always use small kindling to get the fire started quickly, try to avoid excessive use of paper, which creates ash and sparks.
Once lit, add larger logs gradually, allowing air to circulate.
Don’t overload the stove; it reduces efficiency and increases smoke.
Adjust the air vents to maintain healthy flames.

The cleaner the burn, the more heat you’ll feel in your room and the less pollution is released into the air.

Staying Legally Compliant in Scotland

Air quality is a priority in Scotland, and regulations exist to ensure stoves and fuel meet environmental standards.

From 2022, the sale of wet wood and traditional house coal has been restricted; only dry, ready-to-burn fuel is permitted.
Always choose Ecodesign Ready stoves, such as those by Stovax & Gazco or Hunter Stoves, which meet the latest efficiency and emission requirements.
If you live in or near a Smoke Control Area, make sure your stove and fuel comply with local rules.

Living Fires can guide you through the right stove options to ensure your home is warm, stylish, and environmentally responsible.

Ready to Burn Smarter?

By choosing the right stove, fuel, and techniques, you’ll not only enjoy a warmer home but also reduce your environmental impact. At Living Fires, we supply and install a wide range of eco-friendly stoves and fires from trusted brands including Morso, Stovax & Gazco, Arada, and more.

Visit our Edinburgh or Dunfermline showrooms to see the collection for yourself — and let us help you find the perfect solution for efficient, sustainable heating.