This "Volcano" centerpiece is spectacular, and the flame is natural and very hypnotic, partly because it reflects back from the large glass cylinder that surrounds it. We use it as a centerpiece in the dining area, but it would also be a great fire feature in the bedroom or a small contemporary condo. One warning: the piece is NOT flimsy and it is pretty heavy... much heavier than it looks in the photo. Choose a strong table to set it on. Searching the web, I felt the stepped glass base was the most elegant. Other bases (laquered and stainless steel, and a stone slab) can be found elsewhere, but Overstock has the best price of any I found, and like I said, the glass looks the sleekest. Guests stop in their tracks when they walk into our dining room and it is blazing away -- it has the "wow" factor. I'm planning to get one as a wedding gift for some very close friends.