So the actual footprint of option #2 is only 24 square feet larger than option #1 BUT with #1 you get an additional 432 square feet of storage.
Deduct the floor space for the stair access and you STILL end up with more than 375 square feet of storage plus the same wall height ( 12') . Believe me, the additional storage for light weight items would be used.
Recommend Option #1
|