Hi,
I have had a gas fire installed for the last ten years. I find it brilliant. No mess or fumes and really economical to run. I would however advise you to buy the best model available.
Like you, we only use our fire in the evening. There is instant atmosphere in the room when ignited and I love the fact that you can extinguish it instantly too when going out. Most people visting do not even realise the fire is not "real".
I have a few other rental properties some of which have had solid fuel fires. We endeavoured to change them where possible. Much more successful than dragging in fuel to a sitting room. We use LPG as Natural Gas is not available in our area. We have the fire piped to cylinders outside beside our oil tanks. The fireplace is on an external wall and of course the room is vented.
Igora