I have actually been looking at this fireplace for over a year -- and was only hesitating because the hefty price tag. As of now, I'm only writing this review based on looks, not actual heating (since it's Summer!). This fireplace looks BEYOND AMAZING. My house has a "farmhousey" feel, and this looks amazing. The stone is actual stone, very heavy! The entire piece is really heavy.... our 60in tv fits above it perfectly.... i put it together myself under an hour, I only needed a second person when attaching the top and bottom because it's very long. If you're contemplating, just do it. We've been using the flame with no heat, and it looks great.... I'm very happy I pulled the trigger.