ᐅ Is a raised basement the ideal compromise?

Hello everyone,

From the beginning, it was clear to us that we wanted a house with a basement so that rooms like the utility room or heating room could be located there, providing enough storage space and possibly allowing for a hobby basement or even a guest room.

Considering the additional space you get, the costs for a basement generally seem reasonable. I recently read about the alternative of a “raised basement,” meaning a basement that partially rises above ground level and thus allows for larger window areas. This is said to save costs due to less excavation.

Here in NRW, the basement is allowed to protrude 160 cm (63 inches) on average above ground without being considered a full floor—measured from the top edge of the ceiling. So, practically, it can stick out about 140 cm (55 inches) when taking the basement ceiling thickness into account. That should enable fairly large window areas.

Of course, I wonder if it really saves money or if the additional costs end up being higher. For example, you need stairs at the main entrance and also need to find a solution for the garden exit (stairs or raising the terrace). Certainly, more plaster is required for the basement part that rises above ground, as well as insulation for the basement and better basement windows. Am I forgetting anything? Has anyone calculated this in detail or has experience?

I also came across an interesting plot where the front edge of the house must be built directly on the sidewalk (central location). What could be a solution there? You probably aren’t allowed to place the entrance stairs on the sidewalk? Would an internal solution inside the house be possible? But that would affect all floors above.

I look forward to your insights and suggestions.

Best regards,
HB1