Abstract: A freestanding fireplace comprising a firebox and a spaced, outer housing has a primary draft to ventilate the firebox and secondary drafts to cool the firebox. The primary draft flows into the flue from the firebox through a conduit or pipe which fits within and is spaced radially from the flue. Secondary drafts flow through passages defined by the space between the firebox and the outer shelf and enter the flue around the outside of the primary draft pipe. The flow of the primary air draft creates a reduced pressure effect which draws air through the secondary draft passages, thereby cooling the firebox and the flue. Smoke spillage prevention means are also provided.