If you think Obama's system is working, ask someone who isn't!
If you really have your heart set on hand-fitted stone, the best move would be stone wainscotting and leave the brick in place.
Flagstone (usually flat, easy to set, and tasty) would be your best bet. Put it directly over the existing brick, and set a ledger at the top of your 32" wainscotting.
Brick is nothing more than zero-maintenance siding. Stone is nothng more than natural brick. One goes atop the other very well. Any qualified stone contractor will gladly bid your project.
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