We are in the research triangle area and about a year ago go a DV gas insert for the same reason you are considering it. We went with the Jotul Katadin model and we're very pleased with it. It's manufactured in Norway but assembled in Maine. We opted for the remote control thermostat, which they charge too much for. But I strongly recommend it because the fire gets really hot after a few minutes, and it's good to have it go off automatically and then back on a few minutes later. I do not know that I would definitely recommend the Jotul brand -- their customer service 800# is really intended for contractors who sell and install them -- they don't like to take call from their retail customers. I would strongly urge you to look very carefully at the installer you hire. Installing an insert is an all-day project and pretty complicated. And make sure your gas line is installed in a way that is compatible with your insert -- how that's done differs slightly from an installation for a regular gas logs unit. There's a place in Hillsborough that sells DV inserts and does the gas line also. We didn't go with them because my DW insisted on the Jotul -- she worked in Norway and likes their products -- and the guy in Hillsborough does not carry Jotul. Also make sure your installation is within your local building codes. Let me know if you have any further questions. Good luck.

littleprius: for health reasons, sounds like convenience is a must. I had wood burners in previous homes and love a natural fire. But it required stacking and carrying wood into the house. DW got tired of all the mess. In my current home, I have a Direct Vent (DV) gas fireplace in my family room. Also a DV free standing gas stove in my basement. They are both convenient, but my gas stove puts out the best heat. Good luck with your decision. -jasper

Anyone? Framing starts tomorrow, and if we have to go to a vertical vent we have to change part of the window order and the framing as well, so it is a rather pressing matter. Thanks for any advice or options you might have!

Hello, Michelle - if you are after a minimalist modern style, take a look at these units from one of the brands we work with: https://sparkfires.com/products/fire-ribbon-direct-vent-vu-thru/ (91E 3') and https://sparkfires.com/products/fire-ribbon-direct-vent-tri-vu/ (92E 3'). Another possibility is Napoleon https://napoleonfireplaces.com/products_categories/direct-vent-gas-fireplaces/ (WorkingWonders is not a dealer with Napoleon but, according to some hearth market research from 2017, they are a major player in North America.