Hi, cflaherty. Seems you've landed your architectural dilemma on 'The Laundry Room Forum'! ;~) While we have some very talented folk here, don't know if they know much about remodels?

I definitely think a hanging pendant over the table that can be seen through the window from outside would look great. A pendant tucked in close to the entry door also seems the best way to light that area. I would do wall sconces, step lights, or a "rope type" lighting around the basement stairs. The kitchen bar seating needs additional light but maybe put the lighting in a bulkhead. This would visually define the kitchen space, and allow lighting variations.

cflaherty and others...I'm so sorry - I was away and I didn't make it back to this post. Let's see - I can't recall the manufacturer of the doors, but many companies carried them when I was looking - 5 lite interior french doors was my search. I think Masonite and Craftmaster come to mind. I would go to HD and ask. My contractor ordered them thru his supplier. They were wood and had to be painted. Good luck! I will remember to come back and check for additional questions. Jenva - Depending on the time of day I can see very well down there or almost not at all. I would say that it depends on your house position and where you get most of your sunlight. Stephct - I'm sorry, but no, it's not on the finished kitchens blog. I don't want to hijack this thread, but if you start a new one, I will reply with the details of my kitchen. Hope this helps, everyone!

Well if you wouldn't do work without permits, then you should talk with the permit department about what you propose to do. They are only going to approve something that is within code. A door to the basement may not be a big deal, or you may encounter hidden plumbing or wiring that will need to be relocated (more permits), or you may be cutting into a load-bearing wall. Each permit department is different, and they may have no problem with your plan and the fact that the door would be slanted at the top, or they might say that you just can't do what you want. The only way to know is to ask.