[fintstone]

Originally Posted by jyl

Don't what you (or local code) think about spiral stairs. I think they are cool and save lot of space.

Ooof, if literally just 6' headroom at the tallest point of the attic, that's not helpful.

Anyone ever tried breaking out all/part of a basement concrete floor, digging out 3 feet, and re-pouring the floor? Natural light could come from large window wells, a sunken exterior door/stair, even a sunken (below-grade) patio area, opening to back yard. Some of our friends have such a set up. With well-placed artificial lighting inside and rain protection overhead, can make a very nice space. Don't know what water table/drainage situation is in your area, or about costs. Might be a feasible project if you have a strong back.

Actually I plan to build out basement in our house, will need the large window wells too. Project on hold.

That is pretty much what Procon did to my house that I mentioned earlier except I did not have a concrete pad before...just wood on dirt. He pulled the old floor, dug out the dirt to an appropriate level and poured a new foundation. He added a set of stairs that were an "L" shape that did not waste too much space. He was able to add some large windows for light. It is on a hill so the lower level is a walk out. In the 24x24 space, he was able to add 2 bedrooms, a full bath, laundry room, and a mechanical room for the hot water and HVAC.