There’s a reason people with a good fireplace never want to move. A well-designed, properly installed fireplace does something to a room that no amount of interior design can replicate. It becomes the focus. It changes the way the space feels in winter. Done properly, it’s an improvement that adds value to your home and stays with it for decades.
Phil Markides has been installing fireplaces across Wiltshire, Bath and the surrounding area for 20 years. He understands the craft — the structural requirements, the material choices, the way a fire needs to draw — and he brings the same care to a contemporary installation as he does to restoring a Victorian period hearth. The result is something that works beautifully and looks exactly as it should.
What We Install
- Traditional open fires — the classic hearth, built to draw well and last for generations
- Inset and built-in fireplaces — clean, recessed installations that work with the architecture of the room
- Period and heritage-style surrounds — sympathetic installations for older homes that need to look and feel right
- Contemporary statement hearths — for homes that want a feature fireplace as the centrepiece of a room
- Stone fireplaces and surrounds — hand-cut or sourced natural stone, installed by Phil’s own hands
- Cast iron and reclaimed fireplaces — installation and restoration of period pieces
Installation Done Properly
Fireplace installation isn’t work you want done by someone guessing. Building regulations exist for good reason — a fireplace that isn’t installed correctly is a fire risk, a carbon monoxide risk, and a liability. Phil handles every element of the installation correctly: the hearth construction, the lintel, the surround fixing, the throat and gather, the register plate if applicable, and the connection to the flue. Where a new liner or flue system is required, he deals with that too.
Once the work is complete, you get full documentation confirming the installation meets building regulations — essential for your building records and for any future sale of the property. Phil also makes sure the draw is right before he considers the job finished.
Connecting Fireplace and Chimney Work
Because Phil’s background spans both fireplace installation and chimney maintenance, he can assess the full system — not just the fireplace in isolation. If the chimney needs repointing, a new liner, or stack repairs before the installation makes sense, he’ll tell you at the assessment stage so there are no surprises.
If you’re undecided between an open fire and a wood-burning stove, Phil can talk through the pros and cons of each for your specific situation. Stove installation is one of his most requested services — they’re more efficient, easier to manage and work well in modern and period homes alike.
Phil installs fireplaces across a wide area including Bath, Bradford-on-Avon, Bristol, Trowbridge, Frome, Corsham, Devizes, Warminster and surrounding towns and villages. See the full area we cover.
Get in touch to discuss your project or request a quote.
Do I need planning permission to install a fireplace?
In most cases, no — fireplace installation falls under permitted development. However, if you live in a listed building or a conservation area, there may be additional requirements. Phil will flag this at the assessment stage if it applies to your property. All installations are carried out in compliance with Building Regulations Part J.
Can you install a fireplace if I don’t have an existing chimney?
In some cases, yes — it depends on the property and configuration. For homes without a traditional chimney, a twin-wall flue system can sometimes be installed, often within a false chimney breast. Phil will assess whether this is viable for your property and talk through the options.
How long does a fireplace installation take?
A straightforward installation of an existing surround and hearth typically takes one to two days. A more involved project — new hearth construction, stonework surround, flue lining — may take several days. Phil will give you a realistic timeframe at the quotation stage.
What materials do you work with?
Phil works with stone, brick, cast iron, slate, limestone and a range of quality hearth and surround materials. If you have a specific material in mind, discuss it at the initial consultation. For bespoke stone surrounds, he can source appropriate local stone or work with material you supply.
Will my home insurance be affected?
Installing a fireplace or open fire typically needs to be notified to your home insurer. Once installed correctly and certified, a fireplace shouldn’t negatively impact your premium — but you should declare it. Phil provides the documentation you need to do this.
Our Services
Chimney Sweeping
Annual professional inspections, creosote removal, and repairing structural components to prevent fire hazards and water damage
Fireplace Installation
Traditional and contemporary fireplace fitting — stone, marble, timber and more.
Stove Installation
Wood burner and multi-fuel stove supply and installation with full commissioning.
Stone Masonry
Bespoke stonework — walls, stairs, lintels, repairs and period restoration.
Home Improvements
Patios, resin surfaces, kitchen renovations and bespoke outdoor projects.
Bespoke Projects
One-off commissions and specialist work tailored to your property.