Fireplaces for new STR construction

[Kyle Smith]

I'm currently building my luxury STR in Gatlinburg and was curious about fireplaces. I really want a nice one but it appears most are installing very basic, much cheaper gas fireplaces because of ease of use and the ability to put a timer on it.

So, I know many new construction cabin owners are installing a cheap $900 fireplace with vented chase and ventless fireplace so you can switch to vented if the gas smell is bothersome, etc.   These fireplaces look cheap but fairly functional. 

My issue is, I’m really wanting to purchase a nice linear fireplace like the Napoleon Vector fireplace which has LEDs, a super nice fire display along with many other nicer features.    I’m also wanting one that actually produces heat when needed to cut down on energy costs as well as heat the cabin if the power goes out. My main concern or dilemma is all of these nicer fireplaces have a remote control.  I’m concerned the $200 remote will get destroyed at some point, or the fireplace gets left on for 24hrs, etc.   I’m really torn on what to buy.   Your thoughts?

Thanks in advance. 

[Nathan Gesner]

I'm with Bruce. Stick with gas, purchase extra remotes up front (two should suffice) and charge a hefty fee for losing them. To be honest, I once managed up to 70 vacation homes and don't recall ever losing a single remote.