Trends

Fireplace Trends 2025 in Oklahoma: Wood, Gas, or Electric

August 20, 2025
Photo of a living room in neutral colors and low, modern furniture with a dark gray stone fireplace as the focal point.

It may be hard to picture a cozy fire when August in Oklahoma feels like it could melt your flip-flops, but fireplaces are trending in a big way. Scroll through Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts and you will see fireplace wall makeovers everywhere. Stone surrounds, painted brick, shiplap, slab panels, and clean media walls are turning the fireplace into the star of the living room.

Four preschool children at Kiddie Kottage Preschool in Shawnee testing if an egg would cook on the hot sidewalk in the summer heat
This photo appeared in the Shawnee News-Star in the early 1970s, back when my father was editor. I’m the boy on the left, pictured with friends from Kiddie Kottage Preschool at University Baptist Church, just across from the OBU campus. We were testing whether an egg could really cook on the sidewalk in the summer heat! (Notice my flip-flops are near the melting point 😉 )

If you are planning an update, the first choice is simple to say and harder to pick: wood, gas, or electric. Here is a clear guide to help you choose what fits your home, your routine, and your style.

Wood-Burning Fireplaces

  • Why people love them: The crackle, the aroma, and the timeless look. They keep working during power outages.
  • What to plan for: You will need a chimney, regular cleaning, and a steady supply of wood. Wood is the least efficient for pure heat output.
  • Best fit: You value tradition and you are comfortable with ongoing maintenance.

Gas Fireplaces

  • Why people love them: Real flames, quick warmth, and strong efficiency with very little fuss.
  • What to plan for: A gas line and proper venting. Once installed, upkeep is simple.
  • Best fit: You want consistent, powerful heat and easy operation.

Steve’s Note

A few years ago, one of my seller clients had a wood-burning fireplace with a gas starter. They sealed the flue and converted it to gas logs. The heat output was impressive. That living room became the coziest spot in the house, and buyers noticed.

Electric Fireplaces

  • Why people love them: Plug it in, turn it on, and enjoy. Safe, flexible placement, and low maintenance.
  • What to plan for: Some models still look artificial. Running only on electricity can cost more for long stretches.
  • Best fit: You want simplicity, safety, and flexible placement without new venting or gas work.

Fireplace Wall Trends You See in Reels and Shorts

  • Stone or large-format tile: Clean vertical lines, fewer grout joints, and a modern look that photographs well.
  • Painted brick: A budget-friendly refresh that brightens the room and pairs well with warm wood tones.
  • Shiplap or slab panels: Simple, linear texture that keeps the focus on the fire. Add a natural wood mantel for contrast.
  • Built-in media wall: Hidden wiring, floating shelves, and a TV set to a safe height over a heat-rated surround.

How to Choose the Right Type

Your ideal fireplace is the one that fits what your home is already built for, your lifestyle, and your design goals. Add in today’s popular wall treatments and you will have a centerpiece that raises enjoyment and resale appeal.

  • Pick wood if you love the rustic feel and do not mind chimney care.
  • Pick gas if you want strong heat, real flames, and minimal upkeep.
  • Pick electric if you want easy installation and flexible placement.

Quick Practical Notes for Oklahoma Homes

  • Vent and safety first: Confirm clearances, materials, and any local code requirements before you build out the surround.
  • Energy costs: Compare your local gas and electric rates to plan for regular use.
  • TV over the fireplace: Check the manufacturer’s heat clearance rules and consider a mantel or heat deflector if you mount a TV above.

Fireplace FAQs in Oklahoma Homes

Fireplace FAQs in Oklahoma Homes

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What is the most efficient fireplace for Oklahoma homes?

Gas fireplaces are usually the most efficient because they provide strong heat with low maintenance, especially in colder months.

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Are electric fireplaces worth it in Oklahoma?

Yes, if you want an easy install and safe, flexible placement. They add style without major construction.

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Do fireplace makeovers add resale value?

Absolutely. A modern fireplace wall update can boost buyer appeal and help your home stand out in the market. Even if someone is allergic to burning wood, they almost always appreciate the design aesthetic and the ability to decorate a mantel during the different holiday seasons!

Plan your fireplace update

Thinking about a makeover or choosing between wood, gas, or electric? I can connect you with trusted local pros and help you plan updates that support resale.

Click the button below to browse homes with a fireplace in the Shawnee area!

LISTINGS WITH FIREPLACES

You can also reach me at Hello@SoldonShawnee.com.