We currently have a door at the top of our stairs on main floor that leads to the basement. Since the basement is in the process of being finished (and will be accessed far more often once completed) we are thinking that it would be best to remove that door and open up a portion under the stairs. I have looked into it and the header is supported across to kitchen wall so doorway is not under load.

Currently with door its a little awkward since a 90 deg open door will block access to main floor powder room/garage entry/ laundry room. Also, we would see benefit of it feeling much more open in that portion as we have a somewhat narrow hallway (38") there. So we see many positives.

One hesitation may be that it would then be open to a main traffic way that isnt too wide (42" from nose of top stair to the wall in hallway)and not sure if that could be considered a partial safety concern based on where it is? And maybe there is something else layout wise we are neglecting and would regret later? Also noise shouldn't be a factor as we were planning on putting a sliding barn door in hallway leading into main basement area, so you would have ability to separate /close off noise.

Your input is appreciated!