Duplex has unused basement, any ideas on how to utilize it?

[Tyler Z.]

I have a duplex that had two common staircases that have access from two different doors (they have a shared laundry room). How can I utilize this basement as it current is empty and unused.

Some thoughts I had was divide it between two doors with a partition wall and give access as storage (paid?) leave it entirely open and put two storage lockers (more expensive)

I looked into creating a garden apartment but it would require rezoning and ordinances issues that may not make it worth it currently.

Anyone have any ideas on how to utilize this wasted space?