Under-Staircase Storage

[Jonmustang]

The plumbers ruined our built-in, between-the-studs ironing board, so I decided to rip it out and put in some under-staircase storage instead. I'm planning on getting some KV 36" drawer slides and have a big, triangular storage drawer for bulky camping gear. There are a couple things I thought I ought to run past the pros around here first, though...

First of all, is there any reason I couldn't cut out the middle stud and frame up the opening like I would a door frame (add trimmer studs and a header)?

Second question, below the staircase's stringer there is a sort of trim board running the length of the stringer, for some reason (see pics). It's only about a 4 x 3/4 and has a tongue and groove cut into the sides. Doesn't touch the stringer but is nailed to the studs. Is that part of the staircase construction somehow? Can I safely cut out a section to make for a little more drawer height?

 

[The Cobbler]

that framed wall is probably bearing the floor joists because its on a poured curb. you will need to add a header with jack studs & double up the studs that are bearing the header.
the t&g piece looks cosmetic

 

[Wylaco]

If you have access under the stairs it shoul be drywalled. Old code required 5/8" I believe 1/2" is ok now. Typically you would have fire blocking that is in that wall located lower than the stringer. The whole idea is to save the stairs as it is a mean of egress in case of a fire.

I aggree with above comment, it looks bearing because of the footing the wall is sitting on. Might want to make sure you know what size header you need before cutting those studs. More pictures of overall situation would be nice.

Good luck!

 

[Jonmustang]

If you have access under the stairs it shoul be drywalled. Old code required 5/8" I believe 1/2" is ok now. Typically you would have fire blocking that is in that wall located lower than the stringer. The whole idea is to save the stairs as it is a mean of egress in case of a fire.

I aggree with above comment, it looks bearing because of the footing the wall is sitting on. Might want to make sure you know what size header you need before cutting those studs. More pictures of overall situation would be nice.

Good luck!

Thanks very much for both of your replies! I may not be knowledgeable enough to know all of building codes, but at least I'm knowledgeable enough to know when to stop and ask about them!

I will take a few extra pictures tonight, including photos behind the wall and perhaps some illustrations of my plan. I really appreciate the advice so far.