I’m not much of a taxidermy guy…but have a few mounts. Mainly of my overseas stuff. Not in a basement though, let alone with a fireplace so I am not of much help to the main question.

I would suggest tall ceilings though as critters with tall antlers look goofy mounted with the brisket not far off the floor. I have a partially open/vaulted upstairs which helps with the critters that I do have mounted.

[Linked Image from i.imgur.com]
[Linked Image from i.imgur.com]