Question about extending or moving a fireplace

[davebucher2000]

We are remodeling the fireplace in the 1st picture. We'd like to do something like the 2nd picture, remove the pillars and build from there. Specifically, asking about how the bottom is out about 8 inches. Since this is 16ft tall, we are trying to add some depth. However, the existing fireplace is even with the wall. We are thinking it would look better if we are able to pull the fireplace itself out away from the wall by 6-12 inches so there is some depth to it, like in the 2nd pic.

The fireplace is gas/wood burning. We do use it as wood burning.

What I'm trying to figure out is if this is possible, and what it takes to do such a thing.

Thanks in advance.