Introduction: The Living Room Has Changed

Walk into many newly renovated homes in the UK and you’ll notice a clear shift. The traditional fireplace has been replaced by a clean, built-in media wall, with a panoramic electric fire at its centre. No chimney. No flue. No compromise.

What’s driving that change is the rise of the 3-sided media wall fireplace. Once you see one properly installed, the difference is immediate. The flame effect isn’t just something you look at, it becomes part of the room.

In this guide, we’ll break down what makes 3-sided fires so popular, when they work best, and how to choose the right setup for your space.

Not sure where to start? Browse our media wall electric fires →

3-sided media wall fires create a wider, more immersive flame effect, visible from multiple angles across the room.

What Is a 3-Sided Media Wall Fireplace?

A 3-sided electric fireplace, also known as a panoramic or multi-sided fire, is a built-in electric fire that displays the flame effect across the front and both side panels.

Unlike a traditional single-aspect fire, this creates a wraparound effect that can be viewed from multiple angles, giving the fire more presence within the room.

When combined with a media wall, a built-in structure that houses the TV, fire, and storage, it becomes a central feature rather than just a functional appliance.

• 3-sided electric fireplace
• Panoramic electric fire
• Multi-sided media wall fire
• Corner electric fireplace insert

Why Are 3-Sided Media Wall Fires So Popular?

1. Stronger Visual Impact

The additional side glass panels create depth and movement that a flat-front fire can’t replicate. The flame effect feels wider, more natural, and more integrated into the space.

2. Works with Open-Plan Living

In open-plan layouts, a 3-sided fire can be seen from different parts of the room. Whether you’re in the kitchen, dining area, or on the sofa, the fire remains visible.

3. No Chimney or Flue Required

Electric fires remove the need for structural work associated with gas or solid fuel fireplaces. No flue, no gas supply, and no annual servicing, which makes them suitable for a wide range of UK homes.

4. Flexible Installation

Most panoramic fires can be installed as a 1-sided, 2-sided, or 3-sided unit. This allows you to adapt the same model to different layouts, whether you want a full feature wall or a more subtle installation.

5. Designed for Modern Interiors

Media walls are now a key feature in modern homes. A 3-sided fire adds structure, warmth, and a clear focal point without needing a traditional fireplace opening.

Are 3-Sided Fires Always the Right Choice?

Not always. While they look impressive, they need to suit the space.

• Smaller walls: A 3-sided fire can feel oversized and dominate the layout
• TV proportions: A wide fire with a small TV can look unbalanced
• Planning: Side glass panels need to be considered during the build

In some cases, a 1-sided or 2-sided fire will create a cleaner, more balanced result. It’s about proportion, not just impact.

Choosing the Right Size

As a general guide, your fire should sit at around 50–60% of the width of your media wall.

This keeps the layout visually balanced between the TV, fire, and surrounding structure.

If in doubt, it’s usually better to slightly undersize than oversize, especially in smaller rooms.

Not sure what size fire you need for your TV? Use our TV size guide →

Our Top Pick: Solution Fires LUX Range

The Solution Fires LUX range is one of our leading panoramic electric fire collections, offering 1, 2, and 3-sided installation across sizes from 650mm to 2000mm.

LUX 100 (1000mm)

A strong all-round option for standard UK living rooms and media walls.

LUX 125 (1250mm)

One of the most popular sizes, offering strong visual impact without overwhelming the space.

LUX 150 (1500mm)

Ideal for larger feature walls where the fire is intended to be the focal point.

Explore the full LUX range → View all media wall fires

Also Worth Considering: Luvelle Range

The Luvelle range offers a slightly different flame style, with strong depth and colour control across mid to large sizes.

Luvelle 60 (1500mm)

A strong option for wider media walls and open-plan spaces.

Installation: What You Need to Know

• Recess depth: typically 200–220mm
• Power: standard 13A socket
• Ventilation: follow manufacturer guidance
• Configuration: decide 1, 2 or 3-sided before build

Most installations are straightforward for a competent builder or joiner.

Where 3-Sided Fires Work Best

• Open-plan layouts
• Wider media walls (1200mm+)
• Feature walls designed as focal points
• Homes without a chimney or flue

Frequently Asked Questions

Are they safe?

Yes. Electric fires have no open flame and no combustion.

Can they heat a room?

Yes, but they are best used as supplementary heating.

Do they look realistic?

Modern LED systems provide a convincing visual effect, especially when installed correctly within a media wall.

Final Thoughts

A 3-sided media wall fire isn’t just about heat. It’s about creating a focal point that works with the room, not against it.

If you get the size, layout, and proportions right, the result feels built-in, balanced, and properly finished.

Ready to find the right fire for your space?
Browse media wall electric fires →