Abstract: The present invention is directed to a simulated fireplace formed, at least partially, from a compressible material, and to a method of forming a simulated fireplace from a compressible material that has a surface that simulates surfaces found in real fireplaces. In particular, this invention forms a simulated fireplace using a compressible material, such as wood, wood composites, or plastics. A pattern is pressed into a surface of the compressible material forming a sculptured surface. The surface is also coated. In one embodiment of the invention the surface is coated with a solvent based coating, for example, a sealer, a primer, and a finish that can include color and/or gloss. In another embodiment of the invention the surface is coated with a powder coating, such as a low temperature epoxy. In yet a further alternative the surface is coated with a polymer film.