Artificial water vapour fireplaces with Optimyst technology
Artificial water vapour fireplaces are the most advanced form of modern decorative fireplace. They use ultrasonic water vapour and light to create a realistic, three-dimensional flame effect that looks like a real fire but produces no heat, no smoke and no emissions. Often described as a no-heat fireplace, cool flame fireplace or artificial fireplace, this category is ideal for Indian homes, apartments, villas, hotels, restaurants and public interiors where traditional fireplaces are impractical.
At Spacio, we specialise in curating high-performance water vapour fireplaces from leading international technology houses such as Planika. These systems are engineered for architectural integration, safety and long-term reliability in demanding residential and hospitality projects.
What is a water vapour fireplace?
A water vapour fireplace is an artificial fireplace that creates the illusion of real flames using ultra-fine water mist and LED or similar lighting. Ultrasonic technology turns water into vapour, which rises through the burner slot and is illuminated to form a moving, layered flame image. Because there is no combustion and no hot burner surface, the flame zone stays cool to the touch, making this a truly safe indoor fireplace.
This type of artificial fireplace is an advanced alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces, bioethanol fireplaces and basic electric fireplaces. It delivers the visual drama of real fire without the limitations of chimney, fuel storage, smoke or heat.
Why choose an artificial water vapour fireplace?
Homeowners, architects and hospitality designers across India are shifting towards artificial fireplaces because they solve nearly every problem associated with real fire.
- No chimney, flue or exhaust required, making them perfect for apartments and sealed interiors.
- No heat output, so you can enjoy the look of fire even in warm cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
- No smoke, soot, ash or fuel odour, reducing cleaning and maintenance.
- No fuel storage and no open flame, improving safety and compliance.
- Safe decorative fire feature for homes with children, pets and elderly residents.
- Suitable for restaurants, hotel lobbies, showrooms and other public spaces where real fire may be restricted.
Where can water vapour fireplaces be used?
Because there is no heat and no smoke, water vapour fireplaces can be installed in many locations where traditional fireplaces are not possible.
- Living rooms and formal lounges as a main visual focal point.
- Dining rooms and entertaining areas for evening ambience.
- Bedrooms and private suites where real fire would feel unsafe.
- Home bars, dens and lounge corners for mood lighting.
- Air-conditioned apartments and high-rise homes without chimney provision.
- Hotel lobbies, reception spaces and VIP lounges.
- Restaurants, cafés and bars that need atmosphere without heat or smoke.
- Spas, wellness centres and cosmetic clinics where calm ambience is essential.
- Retail showrooms and luxury boutiques to create a sense of warmth and theatre.
Artificial fireplace vs traditional fireplace
Artificial water vapour fireplaces are designed to keep the beauty of fire while removing most of its drawbacks. Compared with traditional fireplace types, they offer a very different balance of benefits.
- Versus wood fireplaces: no chimney, no smoke, no ash, no storage of logs and no smell of burning wood. Suitable for apartments and high-rises where wood fires are not allowed.
- Versus gas fireplaces: no gas line, no combustion and no risk of gas leaks. Installation is simpler and does not require the same infrastructure or permissions.
- Versus bioethanol fireplaces: no real flame and no heat, which increases safety around children and pets. No fuel refills or open liquid fuel in the room.
- Versus basic electric fireplaces: more realistic three-dimensional flames that behave like real fire instead of flat screen visuals.
For many Indian projects, artificial water vapour fireplaces become the most practical solution when designers want the look of real fire without heat, smoke or heavy technical coordination.
Two-way and partition water vapour fireplaces
One of the most interesting uses of artificial fireplaces is as a two-way or see-through fireplace inside a partition wall. Because there is no real flame and no high temperature, water vapour fireplaces can be safely installed between spaces to create a shared focal point.
- Between living and dining rooms as a see-through feature.
- Between a bedroom and a private lounge or study.
- Inside a low partition or console separating two zones.
- In reception desks and counters in hotels or offices.
This “partition fireplace” approach is popular with architects because it brings light, movement and a sense of connection between rooms while keeping full safety and flexibility.
Vastu and water vapour fireplaces
Many homeowners in India select fireplaces not only for design but also for Vastu and energy balance. The fire element is linked with transformation, confidence and warmth. Water vapour fireplaces are increasingly used as a gentle way to introduce this fire element where traditional fire may not be possible.
- Often considered in the south-east zone, associated with the element of fire.
- Sometimes used on south walls to strengthen reputation and presence.
- Placed thoughtfully in main living spaces to symbolically activate fire energy.
Because these are no-heat fireplaces with cool flame, they are often seen as a soft, balanced way to bring the visual presence of fire into Vastu-sensitive homes and apartments. Final placement should always be decided in discussion with the client’s Vastu consultant or interior designer.
Child-safe, pet-safe and public-space friendly
Safety is one of the strongest reasons to choose a water vapour artificial fireplace. Since the flame effect is created by cool mist and light, there is no burning fuel and no hot glass.
- Safe to use in homes with small children and active pets.
- No risk of sparks, embers or accidental burns from touching the flame area.
- Comfort for elderly residents and guests who may be nervous around real fire.
- Suitable for public spaces like hotel lobbies, restaurants and showrooms where safety regulations are stricter.
This combination of realism and safety makes the artificial fireplace a unique product category in modern interior styling.
Humidifier and air-quality benefits
Unlike most fireplaces, which dry the air and consume oxygen, water vapour fireplaces naturally add moisture to indoor environments. This makes them especially useful in air-conditioned, sealed spaces.
- Acts as a gentle humidifier while the flame is operating.
- Helps reduce dryness caused by continuous air-conditioning.
- Supportive for skin comfort, throat and breathing in dry indoor climates.
- Does not release smoke, soot or harmful combustion gases into the room.
This combination of visual warmth and air comfort sets water vapour fireplaces apart from traditional fire-based solutions.
Smart features in luxury water vapour fireplaces
Advanced artificial fireplace systems come with a range of intelligent features that make them convenient and customisable for daily use.
- Remote control operation for switching on, off and adjusting key functions.
- In many models, mobile app control for flame height, lighting and sound.
- Removable or easy-access water tanks for refill and cleaning.
- Multiple flame-height settings so you can set a subtle or dramatic effect.
- Full-colour flame control on select models, allowing you to change flame shades to suit interiors, occasions or mood.
- Integrated sound modules with realistic crackling wood effects for a multi-sensory experience.
- Safety sensors and automatic shut-off to prevent operation without sufficient water.
These smart features make the modern artificial fireplace a natural fit within luxury homes, smart homes and technology-driven hospitality environments.
Types of water vapour fireplace installations
Depending on the project, artificial fireplaces can be specified in different formats and configurations.
- Linear built-in fireplaces designed to sit inside walls and architectural niches.
- Insert cassettes that can be integrated into custom furniture, counters or partitions.
- Three-sided or corner fireplaces that reveal flame from multiple angles.
- Two-way see-through fireplaces connecting two spaces visually.
- Freestanding features designed as sculptural objects or island elements.
Spacio’s team can guide you on which installation type is best suited for your space, ceiling height and interior concept.
Artificial fireplaces for Indian apartments, villas and penthouses
For many Indian homes, especially in metropolitan cities, chimney-based fireplaces are not practical. Artificial water vapour fireplaces solve this by offering a fireplace experience without structural changes.
- Ideal for high-rise apartments where chimney ducts and gas lines are not available.
- Suitable for villas and bungalows where a cool flame installation is preferred over heat.
- Perfect for penthouses with large glass openings and air-conditioned interiors.
- Can be integrated into media walls, niches, consoles and feature walls without affecting existing HVAC systems.
Commercial and hospitality applications
Artificial fireplaces are also powerful tools in hospitality and commercial design. They create atmosphere without adding operational complexity.
- Hotel lobbies and lounges where continuous visual impact is required.
- Restaurants and bars where designers want a focal point without heat around guests.
- Spas and wellness centres, where calm movement and soft light support relaxation.
- Luxury showrooms and boutiques that want a sense of warmth without affecting merchandise.
- Corporate reception areas and client lounges that need a distinctive but safe interior feature.
Planika water vapour fireplaces at Spacio
Spacio curates artificial water vapour fireplaces from Planika, one of the most respected fireplace technology brands in the world. Their systems combine engineering, safety and design in a way that suits sophisticated Indian interiors.
- Technology-driven fireplaces designed for architectural integration.
- Strong focus on safety, control and long-term performance.
- Models suitable for both residential and hospitality projects.
To explore more fireplace formats including bioethanol, gas and LED-based solutions, you can also browse here
Related fireplace collections at Spacio
If your project requires warmth as well as ambience, or a different type of flame effect, you may also consider these related categories within the same family:
- Indoor bioethanol fireplaces for real flame with clean-burning liquid fuel.
- Indoor gas fireplaces for controlled real fire where gas infrastructure is available.
- Indoor artificial LED fireplaces where a screen-based flame effect is preferred.
- Outdoor bioethanol and gas fireplaces for terraces, decks and open-air lounges.
All these options can be discussed with Spacio’s styling and technical teams as part of a complete fireplace concept for your home or project.
Frequently asked questions
Does a water vapour fireplace produce real heat?
No. A water vapour fireplace is designed as a no-heat fireplace. It is used primarily for visual ambience and decorative effect, not for room heating.
Is an artificial water vapour fireplace safe for children and pets?
Yes. The flame is created from cool water vapour and light, so there is no hot glass, no open fuel and no real fire. This makes it one of the safest fireplace solutions for homes with children and pets.
Can I install a water vapour fireplace in an apartment?
Yes. These fireplaces do not require a chimney, flue or gas line, so they are ideal for apartments and high-rise buildings where traditional fireplaces are not allowed or are difficult to execute.
How often does the water tank need to be refilled?
This depends on the model, flame height and duration of use. In general, a full tank will run for several hours. Many models are designed so that refilling is simple and does not involve any tools.
Can a water vapour fireplace be used for Vastu purposes?
Many homeowners and designers use artificial fireplaces as a way to introduce the symbolic fire element in Vastu-sensitive interiors, especially when traditional fire is not practical. Placement should always be finalised with your Vastu consultant or interior designer.
Does it increase or reduce air quality?
The fireplace does not produce smoke or combustion gases. Instead, it adds moisture to the air, which can be helpful in dry, air-conditioned environments. It is important to still maintain normal ventilation and indoor air quality practices in the space.
Can I place a TV above an artificial water vapour fireplace?
Because there is no heat output, many installations safely position televisions above the fireplace opening. Final detailing, clearances and integration should be reviewed by your interior designer or contractor.
Last updated: 28 November 2025
