Yes, but I would make it a gas fireplace. It would be less maintenance, with the convenience of instant ambience, by pushing a button. A fireplace does give the room a focal point and I'm guessing your living area will be open to the kitchen/dining area, too. You will have the lovely view outside, but since you have winters...I would put in the fireplace :)

Phoggie-did you notice on the last thread that Renovator8 who is a talented architect on our forum left a note for you?

Might want to check that out.

How much would you actually use the fireplace? If you won't use it much, then it would be a great place to cut expenses. Also, no fireplace can make it easier for furniture placement.

No,Red Lover, I did not see it....I'll look for it or if you know where it is, please post it....THANKS!

phoggie,

I agree with lavender lass, I would put in a gas fireplace, especially if you have winters!

Me too! Gas fireplace is cozy and there are lots of different sizes you could tuck in different places.

Iam with dekobee, No fireplace. Its a waste of upfront money, wastes monthly expenses on energy (fuel + loss of conditioned air) and compromises indoor air quality.

Gas fireplace.

Definitely fireplace!

"Would you or would you not put in a fireplace? "

I would... but only one that burns wood!

In our market, wood fireplaces are rarely built anymore. Last home I did, we had three natural gas units, used frequently.

I prefer a free standing wood stove, that is if wood is avaiable at a reasonable price (free).

What do most of the homes in the neighborhood you are thinking to build in have? If they all have FPs, then you might put one in. If not, then don't if you won't appreciate it.
Or, consider one like this:
www.justfireplaces.com

My inlaws lived in our rental for 10 years starting at age 70 My FIL passed away and MIL stayed there by herself for 5 more years. We installed a decorative zero clearance woodstove with glass doors (Looked like a FP with tile and mantel)and she loved being able to throw a couple logs on to take the chill off and would do this sept to may in Pa. When wood became a chore we bought the boxes of ""logs"" from Sam's and she used that. LOVED the fact that when there was a power outage several times she could heat the place if need be.
She is 85 and moved to senior living and misses the warmth of the FP.
I would never buy a home without a FP.

If you wont use it and are only worried about resale, we were told they can now be added later. We are not having any because we dont use them. Our builder said if we ever want to sell, the new owner could add one to outside walls pretty easily.