[Mark Henry]

If I had free hardwood I'd still be burning wood, but since I have to buy wood it it's not worth the effort. Gas (propane) costs me the same as wood without the work and mess and the fireplaces have a thermostat.

I burned wood in my shop for 15 years, my insurance company made me put in direct vent gas.
My house I have a gas fireplace upstairs and a gas "wood" burning stove in the basement. I also have mini split 2 head (up and downstairs) ductless heat pump. Open concept house.

If I was building a house from scratch I'd build in a Kachelöfen. No huge temperature swings, super efficient, heats house up to 24hs after it goes out, and I'd build it so the firebox is on the outside of the house, no inside mess.
Downside is cost and not common with north american inspectors.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masonry_heater

https://www.google.com/search?q=Kachel%C3%B6fen&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjsxprpyaffAhXwUt8KHbp3DMQQ_AUICSgA&biw=1303&bih=697&dpr=1