This looks like a great fourm loaded with info.  I have an old Heatilator gas insert that is serving well.  Now I decided to step up to wood burning.  I had a United States Stove Magnolia freestanding stove installed this yesterday. 
On the first burn I started some Ash and some Oak. After leaving the stove door cracked to get a good burn going I went ahead and closed the door. With the door closed and intake fully open the burn slowed and started to stifle. I did have a window and door open in the house to get plenty of air to the stove.
I decided to call U.S. Stove to ask them about it. The kind lady said to remove the 2 fire bricks from the upper back corners inside the stove and that would help with air flow. The bricks appear to be permanently held in place.
I will be calling back for clarification.
Anyway here’s a pic of my Magnolia…
		
		
	
	
		
	
Sorry the walls are bare and ugly in paint prep.
	
		
			
		
		
	
				
			On the first burn I started some Ash and some Oak. After leaving the stove door cracked to get a good burn going I went ahead and closed the door. With the door closed and intake fully open the burn slowed and started to stifle. I did have a window and door open in the house to get plenty of air to the stove.
I decided to call U.S. Stove to ask them about it. The kind lady said to remove the 2 fire bricks from the upper back corners inside the stove and that would help with air flow. The bricks appear to be permanently held in place.
I will be calling back for clarification.
Anyway here’s a pic of my Magnolia…
Sorry the walls are bare and ugly in paint prep.
	
	
  Good luck and post some pics when you the stove area finished. That is a real nice hearth. Did you do the tile work?