fireplace face

by Doug Prib
(Methow,Wa.)

Going to build a fireplace in my house this summer and am researching the face.I have a mason that is going to build the firebox and the required blockwork.The face is mine.I lived in Boulder many years back and really like the red flag.My idea is to build a raised hearth about 18 inches high with a piece of flag 2 1nches (or so)thick that is around 80 inches wide,18 inches rectangular at the wall with a semi circular cut out the front.This is supported with large hewn blocks(like the old university buildings in Boulder.Now,up the sides at the outside of the hearth,more large hewn blocks to support an identicle piece to the hearth to serve as a mantle.Over this I'll build a hood type arrangement out of steel studs and plaster.
So if you've read this far and this sounds interesting,what I'm looking for is someone to cut the pieces and hew the stone.I would be willing to transport the pieces myself.
At this point as I said I'm doing my homework.
Thanks for your time

Doug