When the kiddos were younger we actually used it quite often every year. It keeps the front of the house nice and toasty.
We had some really chilly (for us) winters back then.
For about the last decade our winters have been pretty mild, so that is probably about how long ago we used it. There are enough cold nights here and there to motivate others, but, I just don't feel the need to crank it up for only a few times per winter.
I used to call a sweep out every 2 years when we used it. I'm sure the flue would need a thorough cleaning at this point. Wouldn't be worth it, to us anyway, to do that now.
Maybe that will change down the road, we'll see. More good memories...!
Funny thing is, I can't remember the last time at the firm we designed a house without a fireplace, many with several.
Also, outdoor fireplaces/pits/features are definitely popular here, too.
A couple of our designs...
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