A long, linear fireplace would fit in well with the contemporary feel of the interior.

You should consider existing exterior and interior design elements to harmonize the overall scheme. Also consider whether the fireplace will be functional or aesthetic, gas, wood, electric.

Our home style is transitional, slightly more contemporary. We want a gas fireplace, and we want it for warmth and aesthetics.

Here's a pic of the rest of the loving room. I'm standing in front of the "fireplace" in the second picture.

A gas fireplace can be very nice. We have one, propane, and I'm glad we have it as it comes in handy in the winter time. We purchased ours at Lowe's about 7 years ago and the total cost was about $1500. and that included all 3 pieces, the logs, the firebox, and the surround which is a traditional white wood style. I did the installation myself. The manufacturer is DESA and I can recommend their products. Ours came with a wireless remote control that you can set the desired temperature you want in the room and the remote will automatically turn the unit on and off as the temperature is achieved. We have used our a lot since we've had it and have had no problems at all with it.

Reasonably priced limestone surrounds are available with traditional and contemporary styles. You can see some that I have designed for a company named Hickory Ridge Stone here: http://www.hickoryridgestone.com/stone-fireplace.html

Ours looks similar to the pne in this picture below, it is 5' wide x 4' tall x 20" deep.

Good luck.