Fireplaces remain a popular option for people who are looking to establish a focal point in their home, one expert has noted.

People are also now demanding on-the-wall fires, which enable TVs to be installed above them, while energy efficient fires are also attracting lots of interest from consumers, a specialist from CVO.co.uk has noted.

Andrew Munro, managing director of CVO.co.uk, said: "Clean, sleek lines are always popular as people want a simple, elegant look that combines efficiency and practicality - although there are still some people who are not interested in the running costs."

Mr Munro continued by saying that the number of people who are disregarding the fireplaces' running costs is decreasing.

Housenetwork.co.uk has suggested that there is even more reason for people to increase the energy efficiency of their home, as it believes that sustainability can add value to properties.

Graham Lock, from the website, said that reductions on energy bills are a major plus for buyers.