not sure where you at on building your garage but if your worried about the "man door" taking up space for you bench, have the door open the other way. Have it open out, instead of opening to the inside.
Ok, I have the money to start building my garage. I will start working with a draftsman soon for county approval of plans. I am pretty set on one side being higher to accommodate the lift, but now I am thinking about a jib crane. Anyone have experience with having one in their garage?