I think we would need to see the plan and elevation drawings as well as the type of stone in order to have an opinion.

If the sheetrock is not done its simple , just tell the builder that you wants at least 12" to 14" after sheetrock , so all he has to do do is to move the fireplace o few inches forward extend the frame , that;s it you are good now. it wont take the framer more then a couple hours. ( made one myself 12" deep and it looks great). i'll send a picture if u need.

or here is a couple of sample two of my jobs i did, where the built ins comes out further past the fireplace, i think it looks good , you judge.

Yes it would be fine to have the bookcases out further than the fireplace, I would do the base cabinets deep and the shelf's less deep above.

If you go w protruding cabs, fenders would be a nice finishing touch.

Buitforone has provided great visuals already to help you decide. I don't think you could go wrong.

@ studio10001 So what are fenders? I have never heard that word for a home. I Googled it and could only find auto parts or guitars. lol

If the cabinets are well built and finished nicely it should look very nice.

Try that again:
http://www.periodstyle.co.uk/ekmps/shops/periodstyle/images/canterbury-club-fender-3005-p.jpg

*L* low bench surround for the front of the fireplace....fanny warmers, you know?

Kevin and studio...also metal fenders for fireplaces...to keep logs from rolling off the hearth.

yup. - (Although that isn't the one I'm suggesting here!)

studio10001...In that case, why not go all the way and create an inglenook?

[houzz=]

That would be an awesome place to curl up with a book and a glass of wine.