From looking on line (link below - see page 4) it appears that there is the usual requirement for non-combustible material on the wall above the range and below the hood. Countertops can be installed on both sides of the GE Monogram range, but any side wall adjoining the countertops must be at least 12" away from the range burners. I assume this is because of the intense heat that can be generated by the burners. I'm not sure exactly what you are calling a "fireplace" that you are installing this range in. Is it totally brick from floor to hood, or only from the cooktop surface up? I recommend you check with your architect, contractor, and your GE dealer (and check local codes), but my guess is that you will be fine if you plan on installing the range within a brick "fireplace"(?) that provides a suitably insulated noncombustible surface on both sides. The drawing accompanying the GE Monogram installation manual shows what appears to be a sheet-rocked wall (not brick) 12" away from the cooktop, but better safe than sorry. BTW - Re: the "fireplace" that you are installing the range within. One other thing you might want to consider is the width of the range hood above. Although we're installing a 48" GE Monogram hood above our 48" range (doing this because we got a terrific deal on the exhaust hood, and I think it will be adequate), there are many folks on the forum that recommend that your hood be at least 6 inches wider than your cooktop. Do a search on this forum and you'll find plenty of threads on the topic. You might want to figure out your hood before you lock yourself into a particular width of brick "fireplace." Here is a link that might be useful: Installation Manual for GE Mongram 36

GE Cafe and Profile are availabe in dual fuel and meet your budget requirement. It is for you to decide if they meet your aesthetic requirements. I've seen the GE Cafe in person, and it is a nice-looking range. Here is a link that might be useful: GE dual fuel ranges

We have a regular fireplace with chimney, masonry and metal curtains - a bit ugly really... not a very good picture taken during flooring and painting work... I am also very allergic to smoke, and live in an area where "spare the air" days ban woodburning for much of the winter. I would love to put in a gas insert, but it's not in the budget right now. I thought of putting candles inside and lighting them when I feel like the ambience, but then I thought of the gel fuel and wondered - can I use it in my fireplace? How does it work, do I just open a cap and light it? Also if this seems feasible I might consider replacing the curtains with glass doors, suggestions? I DO have a mantel shelf - staining it now!

That's a coal fireplace for small lump or large stoker size (about the size of an egg). However, because you're in London, you are likely in a smoke control area and thus cannot use anything but smoke-free "approved" fuel. The originally intended bituminous coal is not allowed. Any local supplier will know what coals and fuels are acceptable in London's smoke control area. A supplier such as this one: http://www.londoncoal.co.uk/