Masonry fireplace to "alcove" conversion

[BOxb]

Hello all, new member and recent wood stove convert here (yes, the decorations and combustibles are moved out of the way when the stove is in use). I'm planning on replacing this insert with a more modern stove. Ideally I'd like to go with a freestanding stove but I don't love the look of some of the freestanding stoves I've seen squished into or in front of fireplace openings. I was thinking about removing brick part of the way up the wall to create a larger "alcove" style opening to allow me to expose more of the stove pipe and create a more natural freestanding stove look. Curious if anyone has attempted something similar. Appreciate any input.

 

[begreen]

The fireplace appears to be built into a full brick wall. If so, a key concern would be the safe support of the chimney and alcove structure. Alcove clearances for wood stoves can be quite restrictive if there are any combustible walls or studs involved so planning, measuring, and method are important. In the least, if the width remains the same, the lintel would need to be raised. This can be done and would keep the process simpler. As long as the structure remains 100% non-combustible, alcove clearances will not come into play, though the mantel clearance probably will need to be addressed.

There are some modern inserts that heat quite well if that is an alternative under consideration.

 

[BOxb]

The fireplace appears to be built into a full brick wall. If so, a key concern would be the safe support of the chimney and alcove structure. Alcove clearances for wood stoves can be quite restrictive if there are any combustible walls or studs involved so planning, measuring, and method are important. In the least, if the width remains the same, the lintel would need to be raised. This can be done and would keep the process simpler. As long as the structure remains 100% non-combustible, alcove clearances will not come into play, though the mantel clearance probably will need to be addressed.

There are some modern inserts that heat quite well if that is an alternative under consideration.

Thanks for the feedback. Keeping current width and raising the lintel would likely be the plan if I do go this route. Especially since I'd keep the new stove partially protruding out of the alcove and not pushed back in tight. I am certainly also open to a new insert if it ends up being more than I want to take on. I've already seen loads of helpful threads on selecting one of those as well.

 

[begreen]

This is the time to ask lots of questions and explore options. Note that inserts that project out onto the hearth often are better heaters without the blower running. This can be important in areas with frequent power outages. Also, there are nice non-combustible mantels for sale if that is an issue.

 

[30WCF]

Can you just core drill a 8-9” hole through the brick into the chimney about 5-6’ high?
Clean out and block off plate in the original fireplace, freestanding stove out on a new extended hearth pad or ember protection.