It seems that you are looking to get custom-built brick fireplaces. It is very difficult to give information about that in the abstract. What you need to do is contact at least 3 different fireplace builders, tell them what you want, and ask them to bid. The more detail you can provide the better. Otherwise, you can fall into the trap of expecting to spend XX dollars and then finding out that it will cost a lot more because you didn't specify certain important details. Obviously, such an effort means that you will have to have a pretty good idea of what it is you are looking for.

Just a few words of "common wisdom:" In a conventional wood burning fireplace, most of the heat goes up the chimney. They are not energy efficient. Washington has in place a program of tax credits (not deductions, actual credits) for the installation of systems that meet certain ENERGYSTAR standards. Since you are planning such a large project, it might pay for you to look into that program.

You should also consider putting in gas fired direct vent systems. These are prefab units, and some of them are really attractive. I do not think they are eligible for the tax credit because they use a non-replaceable fuel. But they are highly efficient. We have one, and it's almost like a blast furnace. You do need to get a remote thermostat to regulate the heat output. If you google direct vent fireplace, many options will appear for you to review.

One more suggestion: the website hearth.com. They have a forum devoted to people for whom wood burning fireplaces is an all-consuming passion.

Good luck with your project.

Thanks but we are actually considering a direct vent for one small study as it will vent out the side of the house without a chimney.

I don't think I could convince my husband to do 3 direct vents (he is a purist) but I do think it is the only way we can get a fireplace in our study so he is open to it.

Thanks for the tips about hearth.com. I will check it out. I am going to ask my architect as well when we meet on Thursday.