Spec: A family room, contemporary style in the rest of the house. The family room is 18'5" long X 13'6" wide with a ceiling height of 7"9". The brick covers the entire wall. The wood burning fireplace is NOT centered (4'8" to the right and 5'8" to the left). The elevated base is 1' high X 1'5" deep and runs the entire length of the wall

What we'd like: a mantle above the fireplace and then we'll mount the tv above that. The fireplace and 1-2' on either side will remain exposed brick, floor to ceiling. For the rest of the wall, I'd like practical shelving and lower-level cabinets. Cabinets will store toys and should be easily accessible for young children. Shelving will store cable box, surround sound, etc. Of course, I'll add decorative accents and family photos to 'pretty' it up. Functional is definitely more important than beautiful while the kids are still young.

Issue: I have seen LOTS of great ideas for fireplaces when the base sits only immediately in front of the fireplace. Have yet to see photos of how to handle a long base like mine. Tearing down the base is not an option for us. Am thinking that building cabinets/shelving on top of the exposed base would look awkward..but I could be wrong since I've never seen it before. Am not a big fan of painting brick but would consider it if the rest of the design idea works

I would appreciate any ideas and suggestions. If you have this same type of brick wall, post a pic so I can see your design. Thanks!