Interior Wall Height With Dropped Ceiling

[dshall]

You could always add a 16" tall second floor wall around the perimeter and balloon frame these walls. The 2nd story would then become the third floor in Chief.

Not very clear, and I probably know what I am doing, balloon frame what walls and how does the second story become the third floor, Richard, you don't need to explain it to me, but the OP may not understand what you are saying......