Happyhouse

I am facing a similar situation and came here to find some practical advice. Our project is on a slope, front has 3 storey and back side has 2 storey - lower ground (opens to terrace garden), ground (several exits to terrace connected to garden and front door) and first floor (which is less than 4.5 meters from ground level all along the back). However, the fire consultant is calculating the height of the building from the foundation of the lower ground level and insisting on protective stairwell. That is not only going to add substantially to the costs but also change the feel of an open plan living space. I am exploring if we need to go to another fire consultant who is going to take time to understand the design of the building before suggesting the strategy. Any recommendations would be most helpful please.